Instead of the MPAA making such blatantly false statements, they could take a look instead at some similar issues in the realm of Anime distribution. For years, the only way to get anime conveniently was through illegitimate fan-subbed groups. The reaction to these groups was mixed; at first, some industries tried to shut them down, and others embraced them. Overall though, I think that it's evident to see that instead of treating fan-subs as criminal infringement, these studios and this industry not only embraced this, but also started to offer more legal avenues to view popular shows.
As an example, one of the most prolific fan-subbing groups was taken down by ICE this past February, even though their main infringing activities ceased when the very shows they were subbing were offered through a legal channel. And this was easily 3-4 months after the fact. In a twist of irony (or poetic justice, take your pick), this group also strongly encouraged fans to buy the anime/manga when it became available in their area. What's even more convincing: When the option to get the shows offered in a legal capacity arose, they strongly encouraged people to get active in that, too - and the results were overwhelmingly in favor of this new, legal avenue.
Now, the Anime industry is doing very well, and it hasn't alienated its fans (to this extent). Maybe, just maybe, the MPAA could take from this example and learn not to treat its fans like criminals, and offer legal, more convenient ways to get their product out there.
...Although I think from the looks of things, you'll need to get someone that knows the difference between "stealing", "theft", and "infringement" in a position of power first.
On the post: Dear MPAA: Stomp Your Feet And Repeat It As Many Times As You Want, But Infringement Is Not Theft
An Existing Example
As an example, one of the most prolific fan-subbing groups was taken down by ICE this past February, even though their main infringing activities ceased when the very shows they were subbing were offered through a legal channel. And this was easily 3-4 months after the fact. In a twist of irony (or poetic justice, take your pick), this group also strongly encouraged fans to buy the anime/manga when it became available in their area. What's even more convincing: When the option to get the shows offered in a legal capacity arose, they strongly encouraged people to get active in that, too - and the results were overwhelmingly in favor of this new, legal avenue.
Now, the Anime industry is doing very well, and it hasn't alienated its fans (to this extent). Maybe, just maybe, the MPAA could take from this example and learn not to treat its fans like criminals, and offer legal, more convenient ways to get their product out there.
...Although I think from the looks of things, you'll need to get someone that knows the difference between "stealing", "theft", and "infringement" in a position of power first.
On the post: AT&T Accidentally Reveals That It Doesn't Need T-Mobile At All
On the post: Judge Actually Recognizes The 4th Amendment: Says Police Can't Get Location Info From Telcos To Arrest You
Re: This is whats wrong with Amerika
I don't think we have a problem with lawbreakers and criminals being arrested.
There is a problem, however, with the stripping of rights done to get to that point.
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