Quote:
Originally Posted by Rob
Actually, I suggest you check the common dictionary definitions of the term illegal, which is basically something in breach of statute. Statute can be any law passed by parliament whether the penalty or consequences fall into criminal or civil remedies. As large aspects of copyright protection are encompassed by statutes it is correct to define the sharing of copyright materials as illegal.
But this is all rather pedantic and  in this thread. If you wish to debate further the specific legal definitions please start another thread and leave this one to the Pirate Bay blockages. |
OK, I'll stop. I will do no more than to respond to your point that this is pedantic. It really isn't meant to be, and usually I don't do the language police thing, but the implications of using the wrong term in this case casts people as criminals and that is not a minor matter. This misunderstanding is being used by some to intentionally mislead (though hopefully not on this forum) and so it's an important point to correct in this topic.
Also, just to defend myself, I think you may have been looking at a US dictionary perhaps? The word 'illegal' has a broader meaning there. I recommend the OED. Remember we are only talking about file sharing, not selling things for money. That would, of course, make a big difference.
My aim was to reduce antagonism, not increase it, so this is my last word on the point as requested.