Reason Magazine on DRM

swankypimp writes "The new issue of Reason magazine has an article entitled "Hollywood vs. the Internet: Why Entertainment Companies Want To Hack Your Computer." The author discusses the watermarking of digital television as a springboard to Digital Rights Management on all consumer electronics and computers (as in the recently proposed Hollings bill). While light on the tech speak, it is a good summary of the political agendas behind copyright protection intended for those of us who don't constantly check the "YRO" section."

Comments

Re:Why do these industries refuse to compete?

[richieb]

They are cheap to reproduce, but producing the first one is an expensive process: factor in the cost of studio time, equipment, a producer and an engineer, let alone living expenses for the weeks/months it takes... all that has to come from somewhere.

Actually studio costs have been declining dratically due to digital technology. For example, an artist like Moby produces his recordings in his own house.

In any case the recording costs are charged to the artist and are not payed by record companies. True, record companies gamble on several acts hoping that at least one can produce a million seller that will cover their investment. But is this a necessary way to promote music?

Not all musicians can tour or play live.

Well, then you have to figure out a way to make money from other sources than selling CDs. Horse coach drivers were also put out of business by new technology. You have to adapt...

But what if there isn't an alternative business model for some artists?

I'm sure there is. They just have to figure it out. Screwing your customers works only so long...