We see illustrated in the book numerous examples of the tension between choice and the "permission culture" the major labels want to extend. They want us to have tech, media players, that only they control, that will only play what they produce, in the form they dictate. One proposal is for us to pay monthly subscriptions for the privilege of hearing and seeing what they have to offer. And when we miss a payment, all our files are rendered unusable. Thus, we would own nothing.

Several very interesting interviews and demonstrations show that restricting legal innovation is already leading to effective and quite remarkable illegal innovation and its widespread acceptance. Surely, we would all better off now and in the future with open and legal competition and innovation.

The author has produced a very readable and useful book by gathering information from many dozens of interviews with representatives of big media, free source advocates, masters of innovation, the double agents of the internet and music and film devotees. For those with only a casual grasp of technology, the author gives enough explanation to ease the reader into the developments he describes. Lassica rarely advocates for one or another position in the struggle for control of our eyes and ears. Instead, he advocates for a fair outcome for all parties, individuals and companies, a future enhanced by innovation and creativity: He advocates for a free market solution.

I recommend Darknet to our federal and state legislators, to anyone with an interest in public policy, in emerging copyright law, in the future of entertainment, whatever form it may take, in the future of the arts. Or indeed, for anyone with an iPod or an MP3 phone.

Written: by Elizabeth L Dodge
REF: NB Edited: PC