Abstract
“MP3” has become an iconic term and hugely popular phenomenon in recent years. This compressed digital music format has been championed as the greatest multimedia revolution since the television. The technology has also been maligned as a dubious (and illegal) tool that allows individuals to obtain CD-quality music without purchasing an audio CD, thereby denying proceeds rightfully due to artists, bands, and the recording industry. The current piece seeks to explore this dialectical relationship by applying the precepts of critical criminology to the phenomenon. Following a foundational explanation of MP3s and the presentation of examples that expand upon its controversial nature, this work describes the critical view held by MP3 supporters who perceive the music industry and government as controlling agents seeking to maintain their legitimacy, power, and wealth by restricting dissemination and reproduction of free music to, and among, the masses. Can this control be considered a “victimization” of society? Must we rethink our traditional notion of deviance being ascribed primarily to acts committed by an individual against a corporate entity, because in this case the harm caused by the latter is much more significant than that of the former? These issues are developed and analyzed in detail to inform and guide a critical interpretation.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
