Actually the data on DVD's is encrypted. The private keys needed to decrypt the data themselves were supplied to DVD manufacturers and DVD software developers. These keys were supposed to themselves be encrypted. However, DVD software developer neglected to encrypt the private keys, and that is how the kid got ahold of them.
Actually, there is Macrovision (which interferes with analog attempts at copying). Apex (and other manufacturers) are capable of disabling the Macrovision pulse signal. This is helpful for those who do not wish to copy a DVD but do need to line it into a VCR to watch it on their television set (either due to lack of sufficient input ports or the need to line in the picture through a co-ax cable).
Laserdisc had no copy protection of any type. The audio was digital but the picture was analog (meaning that the content cannot be "ripped").