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Where to look for the right idea? I've been reading a very interesting book published by Libertarian think tank the Cato Institute. The current copyright debate is quite a conundrum for libertarians -- being both avowed property rights advocates and avowed free speech/free market advocates.

The book, titled Copy Fights: The Future of Intellectual Property in the Information Age (ISBN 1-930865-24-4) is a collection of papers, esays, and presentations from the Nov. 2001 Cato/Forbes ASAP Technology and Society conference. It is a fascinating look at both sides of the argument, and an interesting cross-section of ideas regarding what to do about it.

I don't know what the right idea is, or where it will come from. I am a strong proponent of copyright, but an equally strong believer in free speech and the need to balance the rights of the creator against the needs of society. I am highly incensed at the lying, screaming, whining self-serving manipulations of the music industry, but I don't quarrel for a minute that creators should be rewarded.

This book is as good a summary of the complex issues, and as good a round-up of the major players, as I've seen. Highly recommended.

THE US VS. THEM OF DIGITAL MEDIA

Earlier this week, I posted something about digital rights. I'm afraid this debate is now between the lawyers and politicians, and frankly I've lost track of "the right idea." [...]
[...]I've heard all the stuff about being accused of being a pirate, etc. That name calling isn't the part of the debate I'm asking about. Are there practical solutions that permit both sides to get what they want? If anybody knows where I should look to come up to speed on this, please let me know. Thanks. [Rodent Regatta]