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Idea Channel

What do MP3s and Magic Spells Have in Common?

Here's an idea: a PBS show that examines the connections between pop culture, technology, and art.

What do MP3s and Magic Spells Have in Common?

Season 2012 Episode 30 | 5m 35s

Both spells and music were born from a freely available folk culture, but are now sold as commercial goods. There are thousands of artists (and witches!) trying to figure out how to make a living in an age where their products can be infinitely copied. And with commercialization, the morality and legality of sharing these once open cultural products has become complicated.

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