For Activity 12 I had to write an audio script answering the questions bellow:
Is it ethical to download and copy portions of music CD, or an entire music CD, from the Internet? Why?
Answer:No, It is not ethical to download and copy portions of music CD’s or an entire music CD from the Internet. If it is paid for, and the money is going to the recording companies or artists, then downloading and copying the music CD is fine.
If you purchase a CD, is it ethical to make copies for yourself? For a friend? Why?
Answer:In my opinion yes. The CD is paid for and as long as you are not copying and then reselling it, it is fine. I personally copy my CD’s so I have second copies. No one wants to scratch up their original CD. I also exchange CD’s with my friends. In the end we all purchase our own original copy but in the interim we use the burned copy. Copying a CD purchased by yourself being ethical depends on what you intend to use the copy for.
Should recording or movie companies be able to use formatting techniques to keep people from copying CD’s or DVD’s?
Answer:In this case I have to say no. If a person really wants to copy a CD or DVD they will find a way. Just like when copying a picture from the Internet (the copy option is blocked) you can use the print screen key on the keyboard, there are options for copying music CD’s such as sound recorder. There are also options for copying DVD’s such as Screen VidShot. When a recording or movie company uses formatting techniques to keep people from copying CD’s and DVD’s they are only stopping CD and DVD owners from making back up copies. Those who will give copies out and sell copies will still find a way.
What practices should be allowed within the policy of “fair use”?
Answer:From my point of view “fair use” in the case of copying and downloading CD’s and DVD’s depends on whether the copying or downloading affects the artists and record companies income. If you pay for a CD or DVD you should be able to copy it as many times as you like for your own personal use. In the case of downloading, you should only download when you are paying for the CD or DVD and the money is going to the recording company and artist. It is not “fair use” if copies are made and sold, or it is downloaded using something like Limewire.
After I made the audio script I had to record it using Audacity. I had to use some introductory and concluding music so I went to www.freeplaymusic.com and downloaded a royalty free song titled ”Chili Shain”.
I then incorporated the music as an introduction, conclusion and connecting pieces between questions.
