If you talk to many students, they will tell you that Sunday was the end of the world. At least, the world of free music, movies, and other digital entertainment.
Direct Connect requires one student to set up their computer as a hub, after which the entire network can log on and exchange files. However, an article in an area paper that quoted student Lindsey Chesky tipped off the University, which subsequently stepped in and shut down Direct Connect.
In reaction to their loss of free files, students staged a protest on Sunday. While they have a right to protest, their extreme anger, especially toward Chesky, was inappropriate.
Students can be disappointed that Direct Connect was shut down, but they must understand that the laws of this country say that file sharing is illegal-regardless of whether it should be. DC was nice while it lasted, but it was used illegally, and everyone knew this. Its shutdown should not have been nearly as shocking as many students made it out to be. It’s sort of like speeding. Many people do it and don’t get caught, but those who do can’t really legitimately get upset, since they made the conscious decision to break the law.
Therefore, the protest on Sunday can really only be treated as childish whining. Students did not make an effort to form solid arguments about the legality of file-sharing; they only cared that they are no longer able to get movies and songs for free.
The threats against Chesky’s safety, which necessitated police protection of her, are even more childish. You cannot blame the person who ‘tattled’ when you were the one who acted illegally in the first place.
Students need to realize that they are not helping legitimatize their cause by harrassing a fellow student. This is a violation of the rights of another person, and ultimately a much greater tragedy. than the end of Direct Connect.