Remix

by Lawrence Lessig
Remix cover
Good Books rating 3.83
Politics and Current Affairs
Technical
  • ID: 2700
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9781408113936
  • Publisher: A&C Black
  • Published: 2009-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

Lawrence Lessig, a leading authority on intellectual property, argues that current copyright laws have strayed from their original purpose, now criminalizing actions that should be encouraged. He highlights the need for a 'read-write culture' that allows for the creation and sharing of art, benefiting both creators and consumers. Lessig envisions a hybrid economy that combines traditional business models with the sharing economy, as seen on platforms like Wikipedia and YouTube. This approach could revolutionize creative industries, from news to music, and ensure that artists receive the support they deserve. Remix is a compelling call to end a war on creativity and embrace a future where art is a shared resource rather than a hoarded commodity.

Reviews
Scholarship at IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law · E Lee · 2010-01-01
insightful 4.00

The review highlights Lessig's vision for a flourishing remix culture and related businesses. It also notes that the review itself is an example of remixing.

E Lee's review from the Scholarship at IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law emphasizes Lawrence Lessig's vision for a thriving remix culture. They point out that Lessig's ideas could pave the way for new business models that embrace and benefit from remixing. The reviewer also notes the irony that their own review is an example of remixing, aligning with the book's central theme. This perspective adds a layer of depth to the discussion, making the review both insightful and thought-provoking.

Quick quotes

    In Remix, Lessig offers the broad outlines of his vision for making remix culture—and related businesses—flourish.

    This book review is an example of remix.

    Lessig's ideas could pave the way for new business models that embrace and benefit from remixing.

Kara Reviews · Kara Babcock · 2009-04-14
positive 4.00

The reviewer finds the book both compelling and accessible, praising Lessig's use of diverse premises to advance his argument. They appreciate the book's ability to make complex ideas understandable.

Kara Babcock found 'Remix' to be both compelling and accessible, which is a testament to Lawrence Lessig's ability to communicate complex ideas in an understandable manner. They were particularly surprised and impressed by the variety of premises Lessig uses to support his arguments. The reviewer appreciates how Lessig makes a strong case for reforming copyright laws to better suit the digital age, making the book a valuable read for anyone interested in the intersection of law and technology.

Quick quotes

    I found Remix both compelling and accessible.

    What truly surprised me was the types of premises Lessig used to advance his argument.

    Lessig makes a strong case for reforming copyright laws.

The Independent · 2008-11-28
critical 3.50

The review critiques the entertainment industry's approach to digital piracy, arguing that their stance is more about control than protection. It highlights Lessig's long-standing argument against restrictive copyright laws.

The Independent's review delves into Lawrence Lessig's critique of the entertainment industry's war on digital piracy. They argue that this battle is less about protecting intellectual property and more about maintaining control over creative works. The review suggests that Lessig's arguments are compelling and timely, especially in an era where digital sharing is ubiquitous. They also note that the book offers a vision for a more balanced approach to copyright that benefits both creators and consumers.

Quick quotes

    The entertainment industry's 'war on digital piracy' is more about their desire for control than genuine protection of intellectual property.

    Lessig sums up the argument he has been prosecuting for 10 years.

    The book offers a vision for a more balanced approach to copyright.

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