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I know, I just wish we could discuss this without the emotions. Certainly there is not one answer, it is way too complex.
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I agree. It's difficult to find the middle-ground in such a polarized discussion. Even if the polarization is based on a false dichotomy.
I really like smashbooks and fully support BearMountainBooks & Randolphlalonde. I think they're way may very well be the way of the future. But like many others who are on the margins of an issue, they (inadvertently?) sign themselves up for one side of a polarized debate.
Most of the backlash against copyright is *not* against small, indie authors making a living; but against huge, megacorp publishers. These publishers are twisting a govt granted incentive (copyright) into a financial instrument to further their own profit margins. So why are BearMountainBooks & Randolphlalonde (and others) seemingly carrying the torch for the publishers?
This happens all the time in highly polarized discussions. Start a discussion about fuel efficient vehicles, and mention restricting Hummers and other large SUVs, and invariably some working-class farmer will jump up & scream about you taking away his farm truck. The argument is definitely *not* about restricting farmers -- it's focused on restricting urban cowboys & soccer moms -- but when the argument is polarized, the feeling is that you have to be on one side or the other. And, those on the margins end up being pushed towards or willingly moving to one pole or the other even if it doesn't really represent their true position.
troymc