Peer-to-Peer File Sharing

Since the rise of Napster in 1999, the impact of peer-to-peer file sharing has become an issue of increasing concern. Copyright owners fear that the fruits of their labors are being stolen, eliminating any chances they have to earn their livelihoods from their artistic creations. Those using such file sharing systems and their supporters claim that peer-to-peer file sharing merely provides additional information about potential purchases prior to purchase and that the use of peer-to-peer file sharing does not lead to the diminution of purchases of legitimate copyrighted products.

An empirical debate over the impact of peer-to-peer file sharing is beginning to emerge. Because academic papers on this topic are likely to have real impacts on the world, it is important that they be carefully scrutinized. Non academics are unlikely to be able to understand complex academic studies and the Center will help to try to decipher the meaning of new studies in a way that is accessible to non-specialists.

Still other commentators believe that new forms of remuneration other than traditional copyright are called for because they believe that limiting the usage of peer-to-peer file sharing will be too costly. Suggestions have been proposed for 'compulsory license' mechanisms that tax related markets, such as ISPs or blank CDs. These alternatives need to be investigated in great detail with both the strengths and weaknesses clearly delineated.