Copy, Rip, Burn: The Politics of Copyleft and Open Source [Paperback]

David Berry (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: September 20, 2008 | ISBN-10: 0745324142 | ISBN-13: 978-0745324142

From downloading music and movies to accessing free software, digital media is forcing us to rethink the very idea of intellectual property. While big companies complain about lost profits, the individual has never enjoyed such freedom and autonomy. Berry explores this debate in a concise way, offering an ideal introduction for anyone not versed in the legalistic terminology that -- up until now -- has dominated coverage of this issue.Looking at the historical development of the free software and the open source movement he examines its growth, politics and potential impact, showing how the ideas that inspired the movement have now begun to influence the wider cultural landscape. He explores whether free software offers us the potential to re-think our relationship with technology in the information society. This book will appeal to students of media and journalism, and anyone interested in new opportunities for creating a truly independent and democratic media.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Dr. David M. Berry is a lecturer in the Media and Communication department at the University of Swansea. He researches the philosophy of technology, medium theory, digital media and the social and political implications of the information society.

Product Details

• Paperback: 280 pages
• Publisher: Pluto Press (September 20, 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0745324142
• ISBN-13: 978-0745324142
• Product Dimensions: 5.3 x 0.7 x 8.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,931,265 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Most Helpful Customer Reviews

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars A Must Read for Computer Science Students March 20, 2010

By Carl E. Pakish

Format:Paperback|Amazon Verified Purchase

Copy, Rip, Burn covers the basics of free, open source, and proprietary software all in a relatively short book. It's a great introduction to the topic, especially for young Computer Science students/professionals. I found the history aspect of the book the most beneficial. I believe the history and ideological differences of the Free and Open Source Movements are important topics to understand and ought to be a part of undergraduate curriculum. I'm using this book as one of my main sources for my thesis on Free and Open Source Software.