Probably Should Have Thought Twice B4 Posting This Query:

But I'll ask anyway.

In another forum I inhabit (or is it cohabit?), which btw can't hold a candle to POTN, the best forum on the web IMHO, they have rules against the selling of DVDs, CDs, software and EBooks.

I'm fully aware that this place is run better than any and by very smart people, and I mean that, who've been around the block many times and know potential liability when they see it.

So, dear faithful, why is that allowed here? The prompt to this question is seeing two postings for DVDs for sale on the FS portion right now. It is likely these have been copied, though maybe not, and the original author thus getting screwed.

I await the fire and brimstone to follow.

me

I think the other forum is worried about liability if something illegal is sold there.

I think you're right, and so why wouldn't this one be? Don't get me wrong, I'm glad they're not paranoid. I mean if you start worrying about every little thing it can become crippling and ruin all the fun.

The mods have a pretty much hands off policy in the buy/sell forum, I think it keeps things civil and easier to moderate. Caveat emptor

As Pekka said here:

We're like the Classified section of the New York Times. We're just the medium for conveying your message. It's up to you to stay legal.

Please don't get me wrong, I'm not trying to stir up a hornet's nest here, and I for one greatly appreciate everything about this forum. I especially LOVE the buy and sell portion and the way its run.

But, if you don't mind me continuing a bit, if you've ever gone horseback riding, every stable has a big sign: RIDE AT YOUR OWN RISK. NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR INJURIES.

And I think we all know that if the trails are not properly maintained, if the saddle is not on tight, etc., they are sued regularly and successfully.

Disavowment is not a defense. Once you provide an avenue for something to be done, it's possible to be held responsible.

And all I'm stating is that a very well run forum such as this perhaps should review its policy on allowing the sale of software or ebooks, etc, as these things are easily copied and then resold in violation of the original creator's copyright, something that's very important to photographers.

So, if for no other reason than to help protect creative ideas and their makers, perhaps it should not be allowed.

Again, I'm not looking to cause any trouble. I am a fan of deregulation. As a boss at my job in charge of 32, I try to write as few memos as possible, to hold as few meetings. I basically don't like rules.

Just some random thoughts.

me

I think that in the US, public disclaimers tend to hold up on the web, especially when a user must click-through.

Disclaimers cannot protect anyone from a claim of negligence.

POTN is not based in the USA, so, hopefully, that means the owner(s) won't get hassled.