That’s where we authors come in, and why this is a call to arms. As I see it, the only way of combating a copyright system run so far off the rails is to make the system unprofitable. This can be accomplished by flooding the market with alternatively licensed works that reinforce the public domain. Many authors think that the current copyright system protects their interests. However, not only are the major copyright holders fiercely defensive of their exclusive rights, but they step beyond their defensible positions by trying to control the means of distribution as well. This absolutely adversely affects the "little guy" trying to get his or her work out into the stream.
To this end, I’ve set up an experiment for myself. I’m releasing a boatload of my songs into the stream for other artists to re-record, modify, or for listeners to enjoy and share. Like forcing myself to put a little money away with every paycheck, I keep the songs I know that I’m absolutely going to use on a project, and send the rest out into the world. I’m also going to start doing this with written works, although as a blogger, I already give most of my writing away.
I may go into more depth on the technical aspects of how I'm releasing these works, but the short answer is The Internet Archive and various peer-to-peer networks.
It is a controversial solution to the problem. As authors, we all want to create that one work that will put our kids through college and let us retire early. Unfortunately the balance between society and authors has grown too skewed against society. It is difficult to imagine a modern world in which fair use of works and a reasonable monopoly for authors can co-exist. All social change requires sacrifice, and no less so, the quiet struggles for the ways we define ourselves as a society; our cultural identity. Until that balance returns, I am declaring war on copyright.
Article comments
1 - Deano
I highly recommend checking out Creative Commons for an interesting new take on copyrights that permits license holders to allow some "degrees of usage" of their intellectual property.
I also heartily recommend Lawrence Lessig's excellent book "Free Culture".
2 - Rich Frankel
Deano, I totally agree on both counts (note the amazon book at the top!)Lessig is all but a holy man in this field, and much of my music goes out under a CC license. I'm actually glad you brought this up, because I think the nuts and bolts of what Creative Commons is doing, is very on target, but unfortunately would've resulted in an epic uber essay. I might make it the subject of my next article, since this one gives author's the why, but very little of the how.
Cheers.
3 - Bliffle
I agree. Flagrant abuse of copyright and patent by monopolistic renegade corporations works to the detriment of orginal authors and the general public alike.
4 - Snarkattack
I have a good friend who is passionate about this issue - I'll be forwarding the link to this article his way.
Note to self: must learn more about Creative Commons. Great article.