>Developing countries are a substantial part of the world that was excluded by Whil.

Probably true.


>Moreover, the cost of a book, let's say 30 dollars, may be a minor expenditure for Americans (and even peanuts for New Yorkers :), but in a developing country it can be the equivalent of a month's salary. For those developers I wouldn't call it piracy, a total lack of professional ethics and a shame. Rather, for them it's simply too expensive, even for a professional.

If I'm a carpenter and I need a 30 dollar hammer and a 30 dollar book or class on how to build a house, it is part of the cost of my profession. Either my employer pays or my clients pay, maybe by dividing the cost of training and tools into various projects.

I am not talking here of copying CDs to listen at home, but the tools of a profession I make my living in. How can I get upset if I see my programs being pirated when I pirate to get my tools?

I agree Peter, that for you and me 30 dollars is not a month's salary (OK maybe it is easier in Euros than dollars at this time :). I understand that it is expensive in the developing world. I would not pretend that it is a stretch to buy a book. But I still contend it is the right thing to do.

OTOH, does this have to do with Whil's decision? No. It has to do with a shrinking market, as discussed in this thread. They are only comments on why I think that ebooks will not make enough revenue.