Re: Torrents and such

On 27/11/2011 16:04, Chris wrote:
> On Sun, 27 Nov 2011, joseph harris wrote:
>
>    
>> One thouight. How much do we know about how torrent users grow
>> up. Do they [or I suppose it is still will they] grow up to be
>> conventional law abiding citizens?
>>      
> As a group, torrent users have already grown up. Compared to
> HTTP, transfers finish faster, and particularly for someting
> newly in demand, like recently released Linux software, the use
> of bittorrent can require as little as 1% of the bandwidth of the
> site sourcing the file when compared to HTTP.
<snip>
>   But please classify more carefully. Rather
> than "torrent users", you might try "illicit suppliers", or
> "illicit downloaders".
>
> <snip>
>
> ... Chris
Admonition and advice duly noted.

The idea of greatly reduced bandwidth is certainly appealing, though my 
understanding of how is hazy - I might say very hazy.

There is a problem in the term; even as you suggest. While they may be 
called by variations of 'illicit' the people themselves are legal beings 
;-). One reason why 'pirates' for suppliers has been in vogue for over 
two millennia. 'Thieves' would be morally apposite, but always objected 
to on the grounds it does not offend criminal law, but only civil 
legislation.

As you say, to besmirch honest users because their system is also used 
by the dishonest is wrong. But it does behove all of us to encourage 
right behaviour. It is also sensible to deflect the spotlight of anger 
that 'torrent' receives because its speed permits so much illegal 
downloading. Perhaps torrent users planners and designers might find 
ways to emphasise to users that copyright is an important law that exists.

And to make clear that the extent of the theft of copyright material on 
the net is moving thought to the creation of criminal law acts for 
illicit supply sharing and downloading.  I think this would be a bad move.

Perhaps also torrent sites would be positively helpful in at least 
ending the movement of unlawfully offered items when requested? Such 
action whould help us all understand a little better that 'torrent' is 
not the problem that worries copyright owners.

Joseph




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