9 chapters across the catalog
Author Sir Scott McKenzie has released a new "No Agenda" themed novel titled "Operation Free-Tard." The story is a cautionary tale about a government crackdown on copyright piracy and the use of Kodi boxes for free streaming. McKenzie's books are noted for incorporating show themes and characters into satirical plots, and they are available via noagendanovels.com.
In his MPAA speech, Joe Biden targeted online piracy and "mega upload" websites, calling for a "global economic order" that protects intellectual property. Biden made a bumbling remark about a society where "journalists can tell people the truth and even tell people what is not the truth." The hosts interpret his "global economic order" phrasing as a slip-up for the "New World Order" and mock his outdated understanding of technology.
Major U.S. internet service providers, including AT&T and Comcast, are set to implement a "six strikes" copyright enforcement policy in November. Users flagged for piracy will be forced to complete an online copyright course, which the hosts characterize as a "traffic school" style money scam.
The European Parliament voted to reject the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement (ACTA), a controversial international treaty aimed at strengthening copyright enforcement. Activists like Jeremy Zimmerman hailed the victory as a turning point against the "spiral of repression" pushed by the entertainment industry. Opponents argued the treaty threatened online freedom and the ability of users to share and remix cultural goods.
Higher Education Opportunity Act, File Sharing
A clip from a university official discusses the "Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008," which requires colleges to combat illegal file sharing. The hosts mock the name of the act, noting it has more to do with protecting copyright than providing educational opportunities.
The episode concludes with a lengthy clip of Chris Dodd, head of the MPAA, discussing the future of anti-piracy legislation. Dodd defends the economic importance of the film industry and calls for cooperation between the tech and content communities to protect intellectual property in the 21st century.
Joe Biden on ACTA and Intellectual Property Enforcement
Vice President Joe Biden delivers a speech linking intellectual property theft to public safety, claiming that counterfeit goods like tires and Kevlar vests "kill." The hosts critique this as a justification for the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement (ACTA). They highlight a controversial provision regarding "imminent infringement" that could criminalize the intent to download copyrighted material.
UK Digital Economy Bill and Internet Disconnection Laws
The UK Parliament's passage of the Digital Economy Bill is discussed, noting that only a small fraction of MPs were present for the vote. The law allows the government to disconnect users from the internet for alleged copyright infringement. The hosts warn that similar measures are being prepared globally to control information flow.
Six major UK internet service providers have agreed to a "three strikes" program to combat peer-to-peer file sharing. The initiative, supported by the music and film industries, involves monitoring IP addresses and issuing warnings to users before potentially blacklisting them or filtering content. Feargal Sharkey, representing the creative industry, is criticized for claiming that artists are "suffering" and only motivated by financial gain.
