Illegal Music Downloading - Essay Example

A section of people supports, illegal music downloads stating that their actions do not affect the music industry in any way as they only download a copy and leave the original intact. They also claim that their actions do not affect anyone’s computer or freedom as it is a virtual process (Plunkett 2009, p. 24). Although the process of downloading music should be free and fair and considering the plight of those who would want to enjoy the music online, any actions of illegal downloads of music should be condemned and the relevant penalties tightened as this conduct adversely affect the entertainment industry in general.

As opposed to the claim by supporters of illegal music downloads that downloading a copy and leaving the original intact does not in any way affect the industry, illegal music downloads indeed have enormous impacts on the economy of the entertainment industry in general. While one may have the perception that he is the only one downloading such pieces of music to their computers or phones illegally, the reality is that a great number than previously fathomed is doing the same. In this regard, prospective buyers who would have simply gone to the music store or online music database and legitimately purchased their music go the easy way through illegal downloads.

While each grabs a copy of illegally downloaded music, all the losses go to the music industry because failure or diminish in sales means unimpressive financial prospects for the industry. Besides, a vast majority of artists make a living out of an entirely depend on the royalties that come their way when people legally purchase their copyrighted music. The illegal music downloads not only impacts on the paycheques of the musical artists but also those of the music producers, recording engineers, and the people who write the songs, escalating the cost of the music CDs in the end.

This often leads to unsustainability as everyone in the music industry feels the financial pinch including the local retailers and the genuine buyers (Plunkett 2009, p. 36). While some may perceive illegal music downloads as free offers of services and products to the clients that do not have significant ramifications, illegal music downloads in indeed unlawful and several agencies are on the watch against such acts. A classic example of such organizations is the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) that commands over 85% of the production, manufacturing, and distribution of music in the US.

The Association strongly condemns illegal music downloads as it contravenes the intellectual property laws despite its far-reaching economic implications. Any act or conduct that is attempts to subvert the law in the slightest manner ought to be met with the full force of the law. In this regard, there have been prosecutions and charges against illegal music download, especially in the United States. Because it endangers the life of the perpetrator as the culprit risks a hefty fine or a jail term, illegal music download is injurious to society as it causes unhealthy competition and results in lawsuits (Kate 2012 para. 4-6). In conclusion, illegal music downloads are not fit for the modern democratic society that encourages freeness and fairness in all aspects of life, especially concerning business.

Not only is illegal music downloads unlawful but it also caused major losses to the music industry some of which would have otherwise be channeled towards national development. Therefore, measures that are more stringent should be taken to ensure that those who engage in such acts that cause massive job losses to skilled artists not only face the penalty but also discourage others who might have had similar plans.