What matters and why.
Have I done all the things the poll asks at one time or another? Yes.
Does it matter? Yes.
Here is what matters and why. It is not the exchanging of information for free that is the problem - it is what is being exchanged and the effects of this.
I would not know who Lee Asher is if it weren't for poor quality VHS copy of 5 card stud and well done - HOWEVER, once I saw the video and was interested in Lee's work, I supported the "artist" by purchasing his products. Often, right from his site - I bought his notes and eventually upgrade to DVD's.
Why did I do this? If I don't, Lee won't be able to invest in making more products, high end videos, and the medium dies. Think of the impact downloading has had on stores like HMV? Now imagine that...but to a market less than 1% the size....we are talking MASSIVE loses in comparison.
Also, it is a way to thank the magician for tipping his creative work - many are taking this tricks and using them to make a buck. When other companies do this - they are called ROYALTIES - and in return they just get to USE the product. They DON'T get notes or videos in return.
Lastly, with the new age "download" and watch crap tutorials from Youtube - we are starting to lose magic history. EXAMPLES:
Jumping Gemini IS NOT CREATED by Rapheal Ralphini or whatever...it was created by Darwin Ortiz.
The "Voodoo card" is called CARDWARP, and if I am not mistaken, was originally thought of by Roy Walton....hell, EVEN Wikipedia will tell you that! So, by buying from the source...you know it's legit most times. BUY from the creator. Sure, sample a trick here and there...but if you like the guys stuff, pay it forward. Thank him by investing in his material.
Share ideas, but make sure you share them in a way that respects those whose ideas you share so freely.
Thanks
PS - STOP Exposure - no more Youtube tutorials! Keep the secrets, it is all we have.