the Wrongs of Copyright , and the Rise of Technology

The popularity of computers, spread of the Internet, and changing attitudes of some technologically minded individuals are together challenging ceremonial business practices. This challenge comes in the form of open source software which, contrary to hundreds of years of business practice, gives consumers the right to a good free of charge. These technological advances are economically efficient but, by challenging the status quo, are nonetheless controversial and are engendering harsh responses from vested interests. This paper examines the challenges posed by this ongoing trend and the broader conflict between efficiency and profit-seeking behavior.