File sharing… it sounds innocent enough, maybe even helpful. Imagine the business executive, desperately in need of the latest multi-media sales pitch – how helpful to simply hop on a file share site and grab it – right? While business may be the driving force behind creating powerful technology to do just that, like many of the greatest advancements, the technology has quickly morphed into applications more attractive to the everyman: video and music sharing.
In theory, that doesn’t sound like a bad thing, but the very subject of video and music file sharing sites can incite riots. Again, the technology has evolved into a debate that is both legal in nature and ethical; however, arguments can be made for both sides of the issue.
In the con column, legal matters are often noted. Music and videos are copyrighted in most cases. File sharing sites, which allow users to freely share videos and music do infringe on this copyright. Opponents site a traceable downward trend in music and video sales. Consumers are turning to these sites to get the hottest music and even bootleg copies of movies that are still in the theater. Even if it were possible to overlook the legal issue, there is another, perhaps greater issue: ethics. Is it ethical to effectively steal a copy of a song, CD or movie?
It wouldn’t be an argument if the pro side was as powerful. Aside from the obvious free factor, which is admittedly appealing, file sharing promotes diversity. The speed in which files can be shared not only allows for instant gratification, it can promote learning, education and further develop interest. This further interest can, in theory, promote further sales.
File sharing, as noble as its origins are, is likely to remain at the center of a great debate – it is also likely to stick around.