Quote:
Originally Posted by shalym
If you can find a definition in a recognized dictionary that allows the word "theft" to apply to intellectual property, I'll concede the point. I couldn't find one.
|
Despite having already pointed out that English language dictionaries are descriptive, not prescriptive, I'll still bite:
From Merriam-Webster:
Definition of copyright
: the exclusive legal right to reproduce, publish, sell, or distribute the matter and form of something (as a literary, musical, or artistic work)
Pretty clear-cut definition here: exclusive legal right to reproduce, publish, sell or distribute creative works. So, what is theft?
Definition of theft
1
a : the act of stealing; specifically : the felonious taking and removing of personal property with intent to deprive the rightful owner of it
b : an unlawful taking (as by embezzlement or burglary) of property
Also pretty clear-cut definition: the unlawful taking of property. So, what is property?
Definition of property
2
a : something owned or possessed; specifically : a piece of real estate
b : the exclusive right to possess, enjoy, and dispose of a thing : ownership
c : something to which a person or business has a legal title
d : one (as a performer) who is under contract and whose work is especially valuable
e : a book or script purchased for publication or production
While 2b or 2e might seem most applicable, it's actually 2c that glues it together. Because...
Definition of title
3
a : something that justifies or substantiates a claim
b : an alleged or recognized right
3b seals the deal: copyright is the recognized right of ownership of a creative work. It's a title, which makes the copyrighted work property, and taking that property without permission is theft.
QED.