The debate over Google's Book Search (book digitalization project) continues. Better minds than mine (such as Robert Darnton, the head of the Harvard library system) continue to raise concerns about Google, lacking serious competitors, having a monopoly of virtually all digitalized books covered by copyright in the U.S. . Google denies that the profit motive is an operational force in the project, but that seems highly disingenuous:
http://books.google.com/googlebooks/agreement/ .
Others raise more general legitimate concerns about the centralization of information and who will eventually have or lack access to that information: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/02/technology/internet/02link.html?scp=1&sq=Millions%20of%20Books&st=cse. History has shown that profit motives typically gain control. This continues to be an interesting case that educators need to follow closely.
http://books.google.com/googlebooks/agreement/ .
Others raise more general legitimate concerns about the centralization of information and who will eventually have or lack access to that information: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/02/technology/internet/02link.html?scp=1&sq=Millions%20of%20Books&st=cse. History has shown that profit motives typically gain control. This continues to be an interesting case that educators need to follow closely.
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1 comment:
New technology and new applications of technology on a widespread basis are creating ethical puzzles daily. It seems if something CAN be done, it WILL be done. The is danger and opportunity in each new twist of the road. it is wonderful that we can archive the wealth of knowledge that exists in our libraries in perpetuity. Is it likely that one group could control, limit and restrict access to such an extensive amount of information? Definitely something to be aware of and to watch unfold.
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