Re: Asimov performs a valuable service; so why fight over it

[jimw@vosaic.com (Jim Wong)]

In article <3546B789.D54C5AC7@swbell.net>, rubywand@swbell.net wrote:

>      When an archive site makes an old out of print piece of Apple II
> software available, what, really is it doing? It is, in effect, saying:
> "Yes; we know that this action is in opposition to official constraints
> on use of this item. We believe this action harms no one and benefits
> many. However, if it is the decision of the copyright owner that the
> software be removed, it will be."

Anyone running a site based on that policy is a) really, really stupid and
b) a thief.  

It doesn't matter if the operator of the site willingly removes the stolen
software when the copyright holder complains -- he's already knowingly
redistributed someone else's intellectual property to tens, hundreds or
thousands of people.  The damage is already done, and if someone really
cared, the operator could end up in a heap of trouble.