RE: Identifying the Argument

What is Larry Lessig’s conclusion?

That we not look to government, courts or legislation alone for answers, due to passivity, economic influence and corruption. He believes in a private solution- that we ‘legalize’ what it is to be young today and to realize the economic potential that exists. He is also reminding us of how similar situations in the past have been corrected and how we might use those as a guiding factor, i.e. comparing the case of BMI and ASCAP in late 30’s early 40’s. I feel Larry is suggesting adults become more familiar with kids and how

What reasons does he give for his conclusions?

His reasoning seems to be asking us to compare ourselves (same age groups) and the changes we experienced as kids, the arguments there in, like TV, computers, music… To take notice of those evolutionary times and how they benefit us today and that economically we did not falter. That taking down anything with copyright extremism or any form of copyright abolitionism is not common sense.
That democracy demands more from us and we cannot kill the instinct technology creates

What assumptions is he making in his argument?

He is assuming a lot about the artists/musicians whose work is being used for free, that the artists should make their work available freely therefore giving up their profit. Perhaps we need to hear a panel of artists and their opinions as they no doubt want to keep following their passions to create as well, and to learn to allow others the joy of that work. That BMI, having given artists the choice to be open gave technology an opportunity is an agreeable stance for business’ to take today.

Do you find Lessig’s argument convincing? Why or why not?

I find in convincing on paper and in words but cannot quite make the connection to any comfortable end.
I like the comparisons he makes to Suza and his fears, the trespass law and the broadcast industry however, this information does not supply anything concrete at all. I feel strongly that the artists and young people themselves must be involved and perhaps like all the IQ’s that came out of the woodwork and helped bring computers to where they are today, we will find answers with a broader perspective than what Lessig presented here.