Archive of UserLand's first discussion group, started October 5, 1998.

Re: Napster and Software

Author:Russell Lipton
Posted:7/13/2000; 10:04:16 AM
Topic:scriptingNews outline for 7/12/2000
Msg #:18567 (In response to 18566)
Prev/Next:18566 / 18568

Thank you for this crucial insight that had escaped me.

In a digital world where bits can (and should) be conveniently repurposed across varied media to suit the desires of the user (moi) - and repurposed automatically whenever possible (agents, etc) - I should pay once-only.

Isn't it true that "valuing bits" appropriately is the entire crux of the Internet's business dilemma? This is true whether it has to do with pricing Frontier as a Web app (let alone Manila) as much as for CDs and MP3's.

Now, I think I understand why. We're wrestling over something that is, at the same time, incredibly abstract (e.g., "bits") and yet as practical as Napster. Let's face it - even we techies are quarreling over the terms. No wonder that perfectly intelligent others are confused.

Hey, bravo. I'm sure others have caught this but I had missed it entirely.

aka HeadDuffer
duffer.editthispage.com
bookmark.editthispage.com

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