Unauthorized copying of software: what is wrong with the nonexclusive argument?

Although unauthorized copying of software is regarded as illegal in more and more countries, ordinary computer users continue to intermittently engage in the practice. The issue of whether unauthorized copying of computer software is morally justified and additionally, whether developers and software companies can truly own software, has become increasingly relevant in the era of information society. These questions not only cover the ontological foundations of software as a form of intellectual property rights, but also the social and economic effects of free versus proprietary software. Such questions also lead to further debate about whether is it justifiable to copy a program that you yourself would never buy (Weckert, 1997), or whether it is justifiable to copy legally purchased software for relatives, family, or friends without compensating the software producer (Birsch, 2003).