[sinkspur]

But how do I know what is "fair use"? Napster has ruined the music industry, and has spurred electronics makers to take these drastic measures.

There is no such thing as "fair use" in the software business. You want to use a piece of software, you buy a license.

None of these electronic devices affects printed material, as far as I can tell. Unlike a printed piece, however, the owner of a piece of music cannot tell when a copy is made, or what its eventual use is.

There is probably no "fair use" of copies of music either, like software.

You want it, you buy it.

[lentulusgracchus]

There is no such thing as "fair use" in the software business. You want to use a piece of software, you buy a license.

Oh, by the way, I've copyrighted logic, algebra, and analytical geometry. I'll be working up billing applications soon and you can expect my invoice for their use. It's been a pleasure doing business with you!

[DMCA]

That section of copyright law applies to most, if not all, copyrighted materials, including music, audio, video and small sections of source code. It does not apply only to printed works.

I suggest you read the law before you state what it says.

[drlevy88]

There is probably no "fair use" of copies of music either

BZZZT! WRONG! Try parody, for just one example. You are copying someone else's tune into your own song.

[Old Professer]

Napster hasn't ruined anything; the music industry is not making anything worth paying real money for.

[avenir]

"Napster has ruined the music industry..."

Bull.

Napster was a happening, a realignment of the status quo. Failure to accept this and adapt to it have "ruined" the nice little empire the music industry was running, on THEIR terms.

They can get by with less, just like you and I do.