Taylor Definitions – Chapter 5 – “Free”
In Taylor’s Chapter 5, the term “free” is introduced. “Free” in this context, is defined as a way to subvert the capitalist corporate structure, or that the item (intellectual property) in question, has been “de-commodified”. The prevailing belief of those who believe in the free culture concept, is an effective way to subvert corporate culture & defy market values. This means having full access to materials (music, films,remixing & recontextualizing pop culture, or any other type of intellectual property), whether it is protected by copywrite laws or not, should/can be easily & freely shared by the denizens of the online world, without any type of compensation to/for the originators of the content.
On one hand, the proponents contend that the free sharing/consumption of these products is an inherent right of the people. However, big business is using these same peer-to-peer sharing sites & all other type of social media venues to their own benefit too. The major media companies, like google & youtube, etc. – sell the personal information gathered to various sources, so that they can target & effectively market products. So, when we talk about something being free, what it is really meaning is that, the end user/consumer feels no need, responsibility or desire to pay for the content; even though, the content is greatly desired. However, this does not address the loss of royalties or income producing activities to the owner of such artistic expression. The public, by in large, is not supporting the artists who are producing the art the public is consuming en masse. This lack of support is, in turn, making it harder & less desirable to continue to create & produce the art/content.
