[sinkspur]

That section of copyright law applies to most, if not all, copyrighted materials, including music, audio, video and small sections of source code

It applies not at all to source code. I'm in the software business, and there is no "fair use" of any of our software unless we grant permission.

Also, exactly how does one "fair use" music? And how does one control the individual who copies music and distributes it to his friends for free?

Theft, in other words.

[DMCA]

I will answer your points in reverse order.

How do 'fair use' music? Easy, use it in a classroom for teaching or a short segment on a news program. Things like that.

It applies to most, if not all, copyrighted materials. If you keep the source code secure than that makes it impossible, but if the source code is released it is allowable to use it if you follow the fair use guidelines.

Fair use of computer programs is prohibited not by law, but by they fact that most computer programs function as one unit that you can not take small portions out of and still have them function.

Seeing as how I derive income from the production of copyrighted works I would appreciate it if you would stop calling me a thief.

[Old Professer]

What source code do you own personally?

[steve-b]

Also, exactly how does one "fair use" music?

OK, just this once I'll do your homework for you:

1. "Space-Shifting" (e.g. copying a CD to tape in order to play it in a car that has a tape player but no CD player).

2. "Time-Shifting" (e.g. copying a radio broadcast for later listening).

3. "Format-Shifting) (e.g. converting CD audio to MP3 files for use in an MP3 player).

[bk1000]

"Also, exactly how does one "fair use" music?"

Back in the LP days one could record a copy onto tape for one's use. Nowadays one might be expected to buy one copy for the home, and buy another copy to play in the car. If I recorded a copy for a friend was that theft? If I loan a friend a book to read have I sinned? Do libraries pay authors royalties? Has anyone you know ever disseminated the accounts or descriptions of a major league ball game without the express written permission of major league baseball? That fiend! The big issue here is over those that sell multiple copies, not individuals making one or two copies.