Christians and Copyrights

[KamiQuasi]

This could end up being an extremely controversial thread, but I feel it is something that needs to be addressed in the Christian community.
I'd like this thread to serve a dual purpose:
1. To list things
     a. Frequently Downloaded file types (music, photos, movies, etc.)
     b. Alternatives to file sharing
2. To discuss the moral issue of Copyrights, Peer-to-Peer file sharing programs and/or download sites.

My motivation for this is that I really think our testimony to the world is diminished by the frequent use/possession of illegally obtained and illegally shared materials for which we, as Christians, should know better than to have/share. The question is, "What should we do?"

[KamiQuasi]

Frequently downloaded file types (in no particular order):
mp3 - Audio
mov - Video/Audio
avi - Video/Audio
mpg - Video/Audio
jpg - Graphic
gif - Graphic
exe - Executable
pdf - Document
doc - Document
zip - Compressed files
ace - Compressed files
txt - Text File
ppt - Powerpoint Slideshow
psd - Photoshop Image

[$cirisme]

Where did you get that list? :huh:

[famousGandalf7]

Well, I don't think there is any legal problem. Neither does the government. Our usage of pirated software is one thing, but when you start talking about movies or music, you have to understand the legal background. If something is broadcast over the airwaves (movies, music, etc.) the FCC considers it to be public domain. We are not to make copies of it, sell it and profit from that; this would be illegal. But making a copy of a song (album) a movie(s) for one's personal pleasure is legal, and not prohibitable, under the constitution, as it stands. The record companies are trying to get this changed. It is too muddy, because they would have to prohibit us from making and keeping any type of recording at all to do so. Now, if you're talking about the usage of smut or pornography, that is different, and I would have to agree, that a Christian ruins not only his own spirit by allowing that type of filth into it, but also his witness. Our usage of recording mediums to make copies of something which has been broadcast is currently protected under Federal laws. I hope they don't decide to take away any more of our freedoms, it is getting bad enough being restricted by the new security measures as is.