The CD is Randall's (and others) work. I value Randall's work and I want him to keep on doing it. I've been offered copies of the CD before and I have declined, because I think it weakens a system I value. I used to pirate quite a bit of software (Any one else been to Commodore 64 trading party?) but I've found over the years that I want to own the tools I depend on for my work. Some of them (like perl) are given freely. I'm grateful. Some of them are charged for. It's not a problem. If they really help me, they are worth the cost. Though I've never met merlyn, he's taught me a lot and made me chuckle while learning perl. I consider him a friend. I look out for my friends.

My answer to the original question would be:
1) email the person directly
2) if no action, email O'Reilly
3) Go on about my business

I do empathize with MeowChow's reply. If I had the same experiences as he had, I might feel the same way. I have worked with bullies and informers, and I have no desire to become the full-time IP police. I need to take care of my own house first. But when I can, I will help my friends and neighbors, and I think this is an appropriate way to do that.

In reply to Re: Software piracy- what would you do? by dthacker
in thread Software piracy- what would you do? by scottstef

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