Quote:
Originally Posted by HansTWN
That is quite possible, stupid ideas like the "agency model" and the current DRM mess tend to support this hypothesis. However, if the publishers disappear, they will replaced by the likes mentioned -- Google, Apple, Amazon, etc. Who may well distribute the books for "free" using an ad-supported model and hopefully, still offer ad free versions for a charge.
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I think you're onto a nugget of truth and that is the value-added proposition when it comes to digital. If we take the base level of digital as everything being free, no arguing about IP or piracy or any of that, then what gives the digital a monetary or value in this state? It's when we add value that the monetary system might still have a chance. I'm talking here about free versions that you can then buy with extended extras, or you may buy ancillary products to support the artist. But I just don't see the object=set monetary value or even intellectual value as being workable in the digital age, let alone practical. And practically speaking it's a move toward this kind of system, paired with honor buying, donations, copyright abolishment and crowd patronage that might have a chance in the future.