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PIRATE COPIES
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Theological Reflection Purchasing counterfeit goods involves illegal activity, and thereby an endorsement of the levels of deception involved in producing and selling counterfeit and pirated items which encompasses all levels of the chain; from production to selling. As Christians we are called to subvert lies and deceit through living lives ordered by values of honesty and simplicity (Micah 6:8). We recognise that Judas betrayal of Jesus began not with a kiss, but with his willingness to accept a ‘quick fix’ of money for personal gain. The argument that buying pirated goods can be a subversive reaction against the corruption found in multinational companies which legitimately produce goods is not an option for Christians called to protest against injustice, but within the constraints of the legal system of the country in which they reside, and to do so with honesty and integrity. An examination of the issues surrounding counterfeiting and pirated goods brings us back to a consideration of questions around ownership, consumerism, and the commodification of ourselves and our bodies; whether our treasure lies in how we look and what we have. The gospel according to Luke examines the reality of ‘the dangerous magnetism of wealth’ (possessions, riches or money); as ‘a focus of magnetic spiritual force operating in opposition to God and against the poor’ [1]. Jesus speaks about the contrast between those who invest their lives in acquiring visible possessions and those who seek the invisible things of heaven. (Luke 12:33) The parable of the Sower acts as a reminder of the danger even for those who have heard and received God’s word to be drawn away into focusing on possessions. The parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus tells of how easy it can be to focus on our own needs and ignore the suffering of others. How does this parable speak to us about what we choose to buy, and are willingness to consider where the things have come from, how they were made, and who profits? In the story of the rich young ruler (Luke 18:18-29), Jesus speaks about what the command to love your neighbour is really about: taking responsibility for our own actions and how they affect others! We are called to be aware of the ways in which we use and acquire commodities as a way of making sense of the self in relation to society, and how that is altered by our entering into a covenant relationship with God, which shapes every part of our lives. We demonstrate our willingness in this covenant relationship through our giving of money, time, and resources with the church and those in need, and our rejection of the quick fix and personal gain.
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