IP Outreach Research > IP Crime
Reference
| Title: | Digital Piracy, Self-Control Theory, and Rational Choice: An examination of the Role of Value |
| Author: | George E. Higgins [University of Louisville] |
| Source: | International Journal of Cyber Criminology 1, no. 1: 33-55 |
| Year: | 2007 |
Details
| Subject/Type: | Piracy |
| Focus: | Software |
| Country/Territory: | United States of America |
| Objective: | To examine the links between low self-control, rational choice, value and digital piracy. |
| Sample: | 382 college students at a south-eastern university |
| Methodology: | Self-report questionnaire |
Main Findings
Low self-control was found to directly affect intentions to commit digital piracy: individuals with low self-control (i.e., with preferences for simple and easy tasks physical rather than mental activities, risky behaviours, focus on themselves; and preference not to control their temper) are more likely to engage in digital piracy.
Other motivational and deterrent components linked to digital piracy were value (as the value of the digital media increases for the individual the likelihood of pirating also increases), moral beliefs and shame (the more individuals feel that piracy is morally wrong and feel shame about pirating, the less likely are they to perform digital piracy). Prior behaviour and external sanctions were not significant in reducing the likelihood of digital piracy.
It is suggested that college administrators and other policy makers can reduce digital piracy by developing policies and programs on campus that reiterate the morality of digital piracy as well as the shame associated with it. Security specialists could use the study findings to develop specific technological innovations reminding students of the morality and potential shame involved in digital piracy.
[Date Added: Dec 14, 2009 ]