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What does it mean to sell an eBook? Lets say I went and actually bought an eBook from Amazon. How would I sell my copy of the eBook to you? Doesn't it have to be bound to HW to actually sell it (or DRM'ed). It seems like prohibiting transfer is the only reasonable solution, unless DRM is used.


Selling something means you relinquish your ownership rights. e.g., selling your house, your car, etc.

You have no ownership rights when licensing, renting, etc.


But how do I give you an eBook and relinquish my ownership rights? It seems like it relies upon me voluntarily deleting the book. Just from a pragmatic perspective, is that really a feasible plan?


Have you ever sold a CD? Do you rip your CDs? This problem isn't unique to nonphysical goods.




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