CD and DVD Burning and Copyright Law
...ic and movies are more popular than art or literature, and they are also easier to duplicate with todayfs technology. These are reasons why it is difficult to enforce copyright laws regarding CDs and DVDs. However, even if it difficult to enforce these laws it does not mean that such laws should go unheeded. Copyright laws should ensure that many websites and groups up on the internet that exchange music for burning are investigated and destroyed, with many companies involved being sued or fined heavy amounts. The Internet should not make it simple to download music or films so that anyone can copy and sell. Of course this is a very difficult task to undertake, but one that is important for the individuals who ultimately created the films and the music. There are, however, many people who copy their favorite songs onto CDs and then give them as gifts. There are also individuals who copy the information on CDs and DVDs to provide themselves with a backup copy. For example, teachers and instructors, innocent hardworking people, do this quite often in the field of education. One author notes the following regarding the laws: gIt is true that libraries, teachers, and other owners of computer programs can make one backup copy for archival purposes as long as the archival copy is destroyed ein the event that the continued possession of the computer program should cease to be rightful.f However, it is not true that libraries can make copies of DVDs to create noncirculating archival copies.h Such information indicates that there are many fine lines that can be crossed when burning copies of data that is needed. In addition, while it is legal to make copies of music one loves, it is likely not legal to give such a copy away, although it is legal to purchase a CD or DVD and give it away. The copyright laws are complex but they should perhaps become less complex, attacking those who are obviously abusing the system and making money off of copying the work of others and then selling it. It appears as though the copyright laws should clearly attack those who are making money from burning CDs and DVDs. It is likely that people who are not making money by burning information are doing it with any selfish or il...