Thread: DRMed textbooks
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Old 01-06-2011, 04:00 PM   #30
bhartman36
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Quote:
Originally Posted by MrsJoseph View Post
The purpose of the class is not to memorize the textbook, but I have had many lazy teachers. They did things like assign page numbers (not chapters, which would be easier), skipping around from here to there. The requirement for a book will be determined by the teacher and the subject, not by what we think is necessary.
If it was a matter of pages, I, as a student, would have no problem w/ photocopying the pages and sharing them w/ friends. Teachers themselves photocopy articles all the time, so I'd have no qualms with that.

Quote:
Originally Posted by MrsJoseph View Post
I agree that I would use pirate sites as a last resort (no print versions available, no library copies), but if the only option is a $140 ebook rental (I am assuming that the DRM on the rental would not allow prints, since if it did some enterprising young student would have great racket going on), then that is what would happen.
As a last resort, you're probably right, but I'd at least talk to the teacher (in addition to all the things you mentioned).

Quote:
Originally Posted by MrsJoseph View Post
Never will I claim that theft is a justifiable response, but don’t you think that a $140 RENTAL for an ebook should fall under “theft” as well?
I think the difference is volition. If you buy a textbook, you're allowing someone to take your money. Publishers don't willingly put books on pirate sites (that I know of, anyway), so there's a slight difference there. I can see why someone would feel forced to steal under such conditions, but I don't think it's the same thing.
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