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To: Starlight who wrote (19473)	3/6/2001 8:41:36 PM
From: brian1501	Respond to of 60323

Because software is a form of free speech. Software can be used for good purposes, or bad purposes. Why don't we go after the gun makers, the alcohol makers, McDonalds for brewing coffee that is too hot, <insert any other item that could possibly be used to hurt someone else>. People are responsible for what people do. If it takes more effort to hold the appropriate parties accountable, tough. Brian

To: Starlight who wrote (19473)	3/6/2001 10:06:23 PM
From: Road Walker	Read Replies (3) \| Respond to of 60323

Betty, re: "Why couldn't they go after the creator of the software? It seems that would put a stop to distribution of that sort of program." They could go after the creator, but not the distribution. Once the software is on one PC, it can be copied to 100 PC's, and 100 PC's from each of those, and 100... all within days. All the PC's with the software form a network, without a central server, just connected to one another, sharing files. A person on the network copies a new CD to their hard drive, and BAM (to quote the Chef), everybody owns it, instantly. In the same way people could share software programs, movies, books, anything digital. You are aware of the AOL instant messaging software that let's you know when your friends are on the Internet? Same thing, only instead of just sending messages, you have file sharing. It's happening today, it's just not consumer friendly yet. But you can bet it will be, soon. John