The DVD War Against Consumers is why I am putting down the remote and picking up books more often.

Control is something that I continually whine about here: I want more of it and I think that all users are entitled to it. The trouble with the direction that IP law has been taking is that its aim is to strip users of that control. Whatever the media you might consume and the devices that you consume them on is increasingly being dictated by “rights holders” and in the coming years it is very likely that the TV or PC you purchase will be the sole domain of those very same “rights holders” and you the consumer will have little say over how those devices can cannot be used. Want to watch a home movie on your Blu-Ray player? Maybe, maybe not. Can you prove that content is yours? Want to do it on your Vista 2.0 PC? Same question. Want to change your TV or monitor? Better make sure that it is playback compliant with all the other devices in the chain.

My growing awareness with these issues is one of the reasons I moved over to Linux, not because I want the ability to modify the OS but because I want the ability to should the need arise. The trouble with that, however, is my decision will likely marginalize me from mainstream content. It is dissident behavior and if I am unwilling to play by Hollywood or Remond’s rules than I will invariably be locked out from their products so the choices that I make, with regards to entertainment and productivity, becoming increasingly political in nature. Do I support the current system? Do I lend credence to a system that waters down the concept and practice of Fair Use by purchasing products and content that diminish utility?

My thinking over the past couple of years is focused on shoring up and protecting the concept of Fair Use by careful consideration of what products I purchase as well as who I vote for–there are two fronts to this struggle. I purchase products and make use of services that do not treat me as a criminal, a fool, or worse, both. The result is that I find myself withdrawing from popular culture and mainstream society at an increasing rate which in turn likely marginalizes me further as I have less ground on which to relate the necessity for people to consider and protect their rights as a consumer.

So before my pessimism increases beyond my ability to communicate here’s a thought: rather than give your money to Sony, Microsoft, Toshiba, or Intel for one of their fabulous “content protection” devices and before you plunk down money on DRM encrusted content of your favorite movie, TV show, or album why not donate the money to RIF or your local library. At least with books, for the moment, you can read them when you want, take them where you wish, and even share them with friends and family.