I think your comparison isn't valid. You seem to be equating open source with an easy ability to pirate. Look at Thingiverse for example. My friends objects and

I think your comparison isn't valid. You seem to be equating open source with an easy ability to pirate. Look at Thingiverse for example. My friends objects and mine are licensed under Attribution - Share Alike - Creative Commons. That's a valid licence that specifically allows modification and redistribution under certain conditions. That's not the same as "Early programs weren't protected either". >the very lack of protection creates a more vibrant user community Thingiverse has a vibrant community while not allowing copyright and trademark infringement.