Participatory Culture & IP (#NMC7)

Remix: Chapter 10 - Chilling the Control Freaks

Lawrence Lessig states that in regard to remixing the law can be a pain but we the people are the bigger issue. The norms that were set previous to the time and century before now need to be reset for the current state of the remix culture. Lessig believes that there should hybrid economies and develop a set of standards as well as judgements for the RW culture.

I remember as a child my mother teaching me how to write and that I should be free. Lessig talks about the freedom in writing and how education is measured by how well writing is learned. I do agree, however, it is up to the teacher to instruct and guide on how to be a good writer. Learning how to speak alongside listening are key tools to help someone become a profound writer.

If someone writes their opinion on a topic and it doesn’t get the positive feedback expected, Lessig explains that the right approach is to question their opinion and not their right of expressing their opinion openly. Someone can say something really nasty and give their opinion on how I dress and claim me to be something that isn’t factual. I won’t need to file a lawsuit against them because whatever it is that they think of me is simply their opinion. I can choose to ignore their comments or take action into questioning the opinions of that particular person or people.

“Never tell a lie, nor take what is not your own, nor sue anybody for slander, assault and battery. Always settle those cases yourself.” Wise words from the mother of President Andrew Jackson.

Academy Award winning director Davis Guggenheim breaks down how the times have changed when individuals want to use other creators work to only enhance theirs. He stated that ten years prior if any subsidiary work was used for something and perceived by a common eye the steps would have to be taken into clearing the right to do so (copyright).

In contrast, if an artist wanted to use any work from the past or present, the rights would have to be cleared moreover paying a fee before actually using that particular piece of work. Lessig expresses that leadership should be exuded in having the norms of text to be administered likewise in regard to culture.

Today we live in a culture and society where everyone is creating and remixing content of their choice. Remixes can be found in an assortment of spots, whether it be video footage or audio recording. Beginners unite distinctive bits of media to make something that has enthusiastic intention to their creation. In spite of the fact that the legality of such action is misty, it is critical to take note of the advantages of having a remix culture.