The Washington Post, which I seem to get most of my good material from, has now added “permission to republish” links on every story. Being a responsible and honest person, I clicked the link for permission to republish a simple, two-paragraph letter to the editor. I chose to republish on a non-profit internet site, specifically, the education association I work for.
Washington Post quoted me – ready for this – $400 to reprint two paragraphs.
Are they kidding?
In this era of copyright insanity and corporate ownership of information, I’m just about ready to throw in the towel.
When I quote the Washington Post, there are always links back to their website where readers can find the entire article… and the ads that accompany it. What’s the big problem? I’m shilling for them. Most websites do that. So, why the high price? ‘Cause the government lets ’em.
What happens when there is no more free access to information in this country? When the media no longer questions power because it’s unpatriotic? Information, examination, and free debate is absolutely necessary for a freely democratic nation. If you can afford it.
