Quote:
Originally Posted by SteveEisenberg
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Because the digital format makes it easier to create large numbers of perfect copies, similar rights would create dissimilar threats to respect of copyright.
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Well put argument.
But don't we have real threats to respect of copyright? The new bestseller for free - never away more than a dirty dozen of klicks and touches from your device. Sharing and trading among family and friends. Completely illegal of course and no respect for piracy from my side.
A legal used ebook market wouldn't change the situation dramatically imho. A market for used Kindle books by Amazon or used Kobo books by Kobo with the sold book being removed from the cloud/shelf and all devices/apps of the seller should work. Lending of ebooks works in a kind of way already.
And the prizes. Who would buy a "first edition" (sic) ebook for $15 if a used copy is available for $10 shortly after release? How will the numbers add up after all - I don't know. I'm far from sure that every potential buyer of used new released ebooks would find a seller who must have bought the book in the first place. Even with paperback-prized ebooks I really wouldn't expect a large second-hand market.
I'm afraid I still can't see why customers who don't break (copyright) laws and shouldn't be seen summarily as potential law breakers can't sell their ebooks. The (unspecified) potential threat to respect of copyright isn't enough for prohibiting re-selling in my book.