Fixing Signals and Recording Programs for Later Listening or
Viewing
In this section I have encountered something very
interesting. If this bill were to pass, it would be legal for users to record
shows provided they only record one copy (...(c) the individual makes no more
than one recording of the program; ...). In our time, it is now possible to
record shows on Personal Video Recorders (PVRs) provided by cable companies and
on our personal computers. Often people may want a copy of the recording on a
PVR so they can watch it on t.v. as well as take it with them on their
computers. They do not intend to profit off the recordings. If the individual
decides to claim one recording as a back up, then would this law allow them to
own two copies?
I believe that this clause is trying to find a balance
between allowing consumers to own a copy of broadcasting and controlling the
quantity they own. However, I believe that this clause is too restrictive for
the consumers because it is trying to dictate how the consumer should handle a
situation in their private life. Moreover, I believe that this clause does not
reflect the use of technology in the modern society. Consumers purchase
technology and want to take advantage of it. They like to incorporate it into
their everyday lives, even if they don't need it. No financial harm will occur
to anyone if this clause is removed.
Another interesting condition in this clause is that the
user is not allowed to retain the copy permanently (...(d) the individual keeps
the recording no longer than is reasonably necessary in order to listen to or
view the program at a more convenient time; ...). This I believe is also a
compromise between allowing the user to make a recording and appeasing the
media industry. However, I believe that this clause has no place in our
society. This is an infringement on freedom. The government should not be able
to dictate how long we own certain things. If a consumer has legally obtained
something, for example a recording they made of a broadcasted event, they
should be allowed to keep it as long as they want to.
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