Huh? Where did I say it shouldn't be time limited. What I was responding to was your argument that the money shouldn't be flowing to the creator/owner, but rather some undefined "somebody else" for the benefit of society.

My argument is that without copyright law, that "somebody else" who is benefiting is likely to be shady actors like Megaupload, etc. So, how does that benefit society and the arts?

When did I mention them? You are aware that one can copyright works without being involved in the RIAA/MPAA cartels, right?

[citation needed]

Nonsense. The Republican base needs those people to exploit. The last thing they want is an intelligent and skilled population, that would mean the end of their party.

The racist part comes in where with white skin who speak English are favored over other immigrants. If you don't think that happens, then you are delusional.

There are also other issues apart from racism. America was founded by violence. Who's to say that certain people are able to claim a certain geographic area, but not others? If a stronger military force were to conquer the USA, would you be OK with that?

You must have a strange definition of "very few" when it comes to Slashdot. That's pretty much the majority position.

Jesus Fucking Christ, this is a retarded argument.

Generally speaking, copyright does support the greater good of culture and society. The money that's not going to the artist at least goes to a publisher who was willing to support the artist at some point.

If it's just a free-for-all, then who does that money go to? Even shadier individuals and the viagra/online dating/porn/gambling scumbags that enable them.

That diversion of money does not enrich culture and society, it impoverishes it.

Soooo... how is that any different to what's happening with MegaUpload?

How is it bad news for customers? As your post demonstrates, it results in better quality products for lower prices.

Perhaps you mean it's bad news for the suppliers? (Although I don't really see what the news has to do with it.)

How is that any different to when the government seizes a drug dealer's property and freezes their bank accounts?

I don't believe anybody claimed that Amazon doesn't push impulse buys, rather that you can just buy what you want without a lot of hassle.

Isn't that how everything is covered on Slashdot?

Oh, so that explains why so many businesses are switching to Google Apps for email and calendar services!

More like "Windows Mobile 6.5 Classic," given the incompetence that's currently on display.

Honestly, it's a superior name. You should have just gone with it.

Yes. Injunctions are frequently issued to prohibit the accused company from engaging in the accused act until the case is resolved.