Mastodawn

Enron Hubbard Jan 11, 2024

Folks remembering #AaronSwartz today - remember that he was moving publicly-funded research out from behind a paywall.

Then remember the only reason the case went forward is because federal prosecutors, specifically Carmen Ortiz and Stephen Heymann, wanted to make an example of him.

“Theft is theft, and it doesn’t matter if you use a crowbar or a computer” were Heymann’s words at the time.

Notice how federal prosecutors aren’t bullying Sam Altman for the wholesale theft of content network-wide, to build a machine that spews bullshit and further destroys our ability to determine the truth?

It’s because he’s doing it for private profit, while Aaron worked for the public good.

Never let yourself be tricked into believing the legal system is a justice system.

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earthling Jan 11, 2024

@enron

@bookstodon
#AaronSwartz

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TheSecondVariation Jan 11, 2024

I wonder anyways how stealing in idea space works. In the physical world if I steal something I gain something while somebody else loses it. In idea space I copy something and then we both have it. Imagine world hunger and I am the only one with a bread. Luckily copying bread has been made available, but everybody has to stay hungry because I invented bread (actually I didn't invent it, discovered would be the better word).
Its only about power and control.

@appassionato @enron @bookstodon

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Snerk Rabbledauber Jan 11, 2024

@TheSecondVariation @appassionato @enron @bookstodon

Now suppose that you work hard to write a novel. Really pour your heart and soul into it. Then someone makes a copy and starts selling it with their name on it.

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TheSecondVariation

This concerns me too. Assembling the thing has costs involved and one would want that to be reimbursed (like baking bread or keeping me going while writing that novel).

To write something to its defense:

If I imagine it as you say: I have written a novel to improve peoples life's. To make them more happy. To return something to society. Then I would be happy if it was copied all over. I change minds. That should be payment enough.

@SnerkRabbledauber @appassionato @enron @bookstodon

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Emma Byrne PhD Jan 12, 2024

@TheSecondVariation @SnerkRabbledauber @appassionato @enron @bookstodon this is why we have libraries - so the ideas can reach people without them paying but the person who created the work can still afford to eat*

(Hah, not really, because the vast majority of authors can't make minimum wage with their writing no matter how useful, moving, beautiful or true their work...)