Digital Piracy as Ethical Preservation in an Era of Ephemeral Media
The article argues that digital piracy has become ethically justifiable as streaming services fail to preserve media, with platforms like PlayStation deleting purchased digital films and ceasing physical game production by 2028. Shows such as Netflix's 'Hemlock Grove' and TBS's 'Final Space' have been removed from streaming due to licensing issues or tax write-offs, leaving no legal access. The author contends that when media is inaccessible and ownership is reduced to revocable licenses, piracy can be an act of love and preservation. The piece also notes that AI companies' disregard for copyright normalizes piracy, and opaque viewership metrics mean illegal viewing may not harm creators. It concludes that preserving media, even illegally, is justifiable when no reasonable access exists.
Key facts
- PlayStation announced deletion of over 550 digital films from its store without refunds due to licensing end with Studio Canal.
- PlayStation will cease physical game production by 2028, citing consumer preference for digital media.
- Netflix removed 'Hemlock Grove' in 2022 due to complex rights with Gaumont International Television.
- 'Final Space' was removed from all streaming platforms in 2022 after being written off for tax purposes by WarnerMedia.
- WWE spin-offs 'Total Divas', 'Total Bellas', and 'Miz & Mrs.' are no longer available legally since 2026.
- Physical media for 'Final Space' is scarce and expensive, with season one resale prices up to $199.99 in Australia.
- AI companies have argued copyright is less important than training models, normalizing digital piracy.
- The article suggests piracy can be ethical when media is otherwise unavailable and preservation is the goal.
Entities
Artists
- Olan Rogers
- Leah J. Williams
Institutions
- PlayStation
- Sony Interactive Entertainment
- Studio Canal
- Netflix
- Gaumont International Television
- TBS
- Discovery Inc.
- WarnerMedia
- WWE
- WWE Network
- ScreenHub
- ArtsHub
- Warner Bros. Discovery
- ArtsHub UK
Locations
- Australia