Is It OK To Steal?

If the item in question is digital -- music, movies, etc., the answer from the blogosphere is a resounding "yes"!.

If there's any doubt, people point out that Canadians pay a tax on blank media because Canadians routinely flout copyright laws.

Here's my response:

Let's say that thieves are stealing furniture. In response, the government puts an extra tax on furniture that is supposed to go to those who have been stolen from. But the money really only goes to the major players. Now, someone steals your furniture. Because you are a little guy, you receive no compensation. How do you feel? Does the furniture tax make all things OK for you?

The principle of copyright law is that the author of a creative work owns the rights to the work, period. If you are not willing to pay for it on whatever terms it is offered, move on.

Love your neighbour. Do not steal.

And that's the way the Ball bounces.