How about this argument (that I've seen elsewhere on the web): You just got a big client, but you need Lightwave (for example) to finish the "big render". But, you have to go through a lengthy process of getting the software shipped, then installing it, and then getting a machine-specific hardware "dongle". You know you'll only need the program for this client and will probably never use it again. So, what do you do? You order the full version, which will ship in 5-7 business days, and make you 100% legal. You then jump on the Internet and download the cracked version (and all patches) within in an hour. You then install it on your PC's and start work on your client's project. 5-6 days later, the "legal" version arrives... but, by then, you've finished 5 days worth of work! You never install the real one (which may or may not include the latest patches). And what happens if the dongle had broken during shipment? What do you tell your client? "Sorry, we can't do the render, the dongle broke". They'll find someone who can do the render for them. However, if you're ever auditted, you now have the legally-bought version and serial number. ------ As for the argument of using DC characters on websites (such as Animotions): since the time "fan sites" started appearing on the web, most companies have agreed to let people post their own stuff as long it's 1) free and 2) in the "spirit" of the character. (In other words, no "adult" stuff.) This way, the company and its characters get extra publicity. And, if the companies support the free fan sites, they get more publicity for "being nice" to fans! ------ While we're on the subject of ethics: would everyone who has MP3 files on their machine please raise their hand? Where did you get those files? Napster? Uh-huh. And how is an MP3 different from a DAZ Poser file or from a program? There is no difference- they are all copyrighted materials. Yet people will make a huge stink over copying Poser files, yet they're fine with "sharing" MP3 songs.