Lawrence Lessig: Remix, Copyright by the laws of humanity

Lessig, L. (2008). Remix: Making art and commerce thrive in the hydrid economy. New York: The Penguin Press.

May I suggest that if the first sixty pages are anything to go by every educator and parent should have their students, children and themselves read this book. At this time in history, this is an important read for our youth and beyond.

The beauty of this book is that it is easy to read and easy to understand while Lessig takes on all the relevant and complex issues. Some of the simplest things in life are also some of the most complex and Lessig plays this out beautifully.

His writing style is straight forward and lacks any iota of pretentiousness or legal jargon. He entices us into the most complex issues of copyright laws of the internet and beyond by giving real examples. Real people and their stories are employed to subtly explain to us in terms of living why copyright and creative commons are important.

And this isn't the only reason all our youth should be reading this book. Lessig talks about the law in terms of humanity. He asks for more "humility in regulation." He talks about respect: "If you want to respect Yo-Yo Ma, try playing a cello." This idea in itself is reason enough for wanting our youth to read this book. The idea that you can have more respect for others by attempting to fill their shoes is indicative of a true learning experience.

What parent wouldn't be happy to have their offspring reading about copyright in the twent-first century through the lens of humility and respect?

If you are not aware of L. Lessig here is a look into the man. If you cannot watch all 18 minutes of this video please watch the last minute.

[A great holiday gift idea and - no I don't know him nor do I get anything from the sales of his book]