Today’s lecture in class was quite interesting. One topic in specific, downloading music online, intrigued me the most. In 2000, I used Napster for the first time and believed it was the best device ever created. I’m a huge music buff and being able to download all the songs I wanted was like heaven. Not only could I download all the songs I want, but it’s absolutely free.

The real question that repeatedly occurs is if downloading music online is ethical. I’m definitely stuck in the middle when it comes to this controversy. As a constant media consumer, downloading music online is simply a way for me to enjoy something I love. Come on, songs are constantly on the radio, and that too can be easily recorded. What’s the difference? I understand why artist(s) especially mainstream ones, are against downloading because obviously they are losing profit. Yes, they’re just like us and also need to provide for themselves and others.

Someone raised a great point about downloading and said, “The actual musicians’ CD profit isn’t directly going to them. Maybe if it did, then I would be more willing to buy.” Not only that, but there’s a huge distance between yourself and the artist(s). I guess that’s the reason why I don’t feel like I’m “stealing” because its not like I’m going up to Beyonce and stealing her CD right in front of her face. What about the underground, low-key musicians? I have many friends who are in bands and believe downloading music is a benefit because they get their songs out to the public and build an audience.

In conclusion, downloading music online has its pros and cons, but at the end of it all, it benefits myself.