Research supports gap between statutory reality and normative public perception

There are naturally many examples of when tougher laws change behavior, and there are also even examples of when tougher laws have made a substantial contribution in changing social norms. However, there are a few possible drawbacks when law turns repressive.

via torrentfreak.com

Predictably, this researcher finds ample evidence that normative ideas of theft do not include content piracy. That is in line with common sense, but what is even more interesting is that the article at TorrentFreak concludes by suggesting the law "adapt to the digital age."

I think the tension between normative changes in social values and aging laws is not going to go away. I think it's a good thing, too. Aging laws cause many problems, but they also put changes in social thinking into perspective.

Sure, the publisher is not deprived of any tangible property when a music file is pirated, but they may be robbed of potential revenue. Even a law "adapted" to the digital age will need to address that problem.

Image via fotocommunity user Marksjaznbluez.

This was originally posted to joeross.posterous.com.