The intersection of ethics, law, business and computer software is the subject of these essays and speeches by MacArthur Foundation Grant winner, Richard M. Stallman. This collection includes historical writings such as The GNU Manifesto, which defined and launched the activist Free Software Movement, along with new writings on hot topics in copyright, patent law, and the controversial issue of "trusted computing." Stallman takes a critical look at common abuses of copyright law and patents when applied to computer software programs, and how these abuses damage our entire society and remove our existing freedoms. He also discusses the social aspects of software and how free software can create community and social justice.

Given the current turmoil in copyright and patent laws, including the DMCA and proposed CBDTPA, these essays are more relevant than ever. Stallman tackles head-on the essential issues driving the current changes in copyright law. He argues that for creativity to flourish, software must be free of inappropriate and overly-broad legal constraints. Over the past twenty years his arguments and actions have changed the course of software history; this new book is sure to impact the future of software and legal policies in the years to come.

Lawrence Lessig, the author of two well-known books on similar topics, writes the introduction. He is a noted legal expert on copyright law and a Stanford Law School professor.

 

Deconstructing the Hero explores the structure and meaning of one of the most popular literary genres--the adventure story. It offers analytical readings of some of the most widely read books such as Treasure Island and Robinson Crusoe, and describes how these stories are influential in shaping children's perceptions and values.

The stories we tell about ourselves and our communities. This is a book about stories created in imaginary play and the way they impact upon our lives. From childhood we learn about ourselves from the stories other people tell us and the stories we tell about ourselves. From these stories we begin to form our identity and a sense of self. Some of these stories make us proud and strong in the sense of who we are, but this is not always so.

Many study books fail to deliver what they promise: techniques alone do not necessarily boost exam performance. To work effectively, study advice has to take account of the variety of attitudes students have to the prospect of being assessed. These determine how successfully they adopt and develop study strategies for exam success.

 

All organisms, from bees to computer networks, create signs, communicate, and exchange information. The field of semiotics explores the ways in which we use these signs to make inferences about the nature of the world.