A peer-to-peer network (P2P) is a network that facilitates the file sharing between two different computers. For example Napster, Limewire/Gnutella, and bitTorrent are all P2P networks. Ostensibly P2P networks are used to share files (e.g. photos, research, jokes, etc.) between like-minded Internet users.
The basics of a P2P network is software (a client) that facilitates this sharing. For example running Limewire (a Gnutella client program) allows you to learn which other computers on the Internet (which need to also be running Limewire) have a copy of the file you are looking for.
When you run Limewire, not only can you learn the Internet address of others with the file you are looking for, you also have a "public folder" into which you place files you are willing to share with others. Once you have located the Internet address of another computer/user who has a copy of the file you are looking for, the software allows you to download a copy of that file to your computer.
As you can see, it is these P2P networks that not only facilitate the sharing of files we ourselves create (say a home movie), but also facilitate the sharing of copyright material. That is, P2P networks are the primary software vehicles for sharing music files across the Internet. In fact some claim that P2P networks' only purpose/use is to share copyright material.
Ohio University recently banned all P2P client programs on its campus: OU Blocks P2P File Sharing. Today, Representative Howard Coble (R-NC) endorsed OU's move: Coble Endorses College P2P Blocking.
Write a one-page (max) essay on whether you believe Xavier University should follow suit and use technical means to block all on-campus use of any P2P network. Craft a compelling argument to support your position.
Since your essay and the conclusion you draw must be grounded in your research, you must provide a bibliography. For each entry in your bibliography you must provide a 1-2 sentence analysis as to the accuracy, authority, objectivity and coverage of the source. Your bibliography may be on a second page.
Your position paper/essay should have a firm ethical foundation: analogy, utilitarianism, deontological argument or the paramedic method.