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Just to add an interesting twist here, consider the implications of 3d printing.
As background let me explain a 3d printer. It is a device that can print solid objects by adding layer upon layer of material. All it takes is a supply of appropriate raw material and digital instructions of what to print. It has been used for everything from aircraft replacement parts to replacement organs for the human body -- although most of these are only in the proof of concept stage. A working mechanical clock (gears, etc.) has been printed as well as a circuit board (not the CPU, yet).
One enterprising individual figured out how to use a 3d printer to create an assault rifle. It seems that it's perfectly legal to get parts for your existing assault rifle if you already own one. you just can't buy a new one. All parts are available except one specific part that is likewise controlled to keep you from building a new assault rifle. This individual demonstrated that you could print out the one missing part and buy the rest.
This technology brings the exact same issues we are discussing to both copyright and patents of physical goods. A digital model to print out an object can be copyrighted. If I create a model to print out a novel object and you 'share' my model without authorization what are the implications? What if I print out an object that you have patented?
Today this technology is available via the Internet. You can upload your own model and they will print it and mail the object to you. However, there are already home printers (with limited capabilities) available for $1,000 (US).
Bottom line is that this discussion really isn't just about intangible goods. It relates to all(?) copyrights and patents.
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