Illegally downloading music has become a heartless
issue in today’s society. Individuals are seeking free downloading sites to
obtain music rather than purchasing their music from iTunes or any other type
of music store.
In class, we discussed different ways to evaluate
whether or not it is ethical to illegally download music.
According to Aristotle, to behave ethically,
individuals must know what they are doing, select their action with a moral
reason, and act out of good character. When it comes to illegally downloading
music, most people are aware of the fact they are pursuing a crime. Their ‘moral
reason’ for pursuing the download because it is free and individuals are saving
money. Even though individuals are aware of the negative effects of these
actions, they still practice illegally music downloading because it is free and
convenient for THEM.
Some of the individuals partaking in this illegal
music download epidemic are unaware of the harm they are causing. Because of
this, students should be informed about these issues in class at a younger age in
order to clear up any confusion or misconceptions. If everyone was truly aware
of the harm they were causing, more individuals may change their actions and
choose to obtain their music the correct way.
Immanuel Kant believes in the categorical imperative
philosophy which asks people to consider what would be the result of everyone
acting the same way they themselves wish to act. Imagine if all of the music
listeners in the world decided to illegally download and no one purchased
anything pertaining to music. Music industries, labels are artists would be hit
even harder than they already are. According to the Recording Industry
Association of America, the amount of lost revenue is already in the billions
each year. This is sure to double or triple if everyone decided to pursue this
crime.
When analyzing an ethical situation, Sissela Bok
says to consult your conscious, seek alternatives, and hold an imaginary
ethical dialogue with everyone involved. Individuals must ask themselves if it is
‘okay’ to steal someone else’s work without paying for it. There are alternatives
for illegally downloading music—purchasing it.
It is important for our society to be aware of this
issue and to evaluate these ethical principles before illegally downloading
music.
