Intellectual Property

While reading my friend Menachem's blog online, I came upon a link to a certain Sarra, who described a certain moral dilemma and logic with regards to intellectual property. I post a response, to which I would like to add a few comments here.

The idea of dinah d'malkhuta dinah covers civil and criminal law, and even if Shmuel only said it because he was on good terms with the Sassanian (Middle Persian/Bavli Era [Zoroastrian] dynasty) government, does not remove it from the tide of halakhic history. However, the more universal block of Qiddush and Hillul HaShem extend much further, with graver consequences, than civil or even criminal infractions.

We do not respect, and in fact are ashamed, at religious people who are caught red-handed cheating on their taxes. We are appalled when they defend it in the name of Torah! Anyone who feels it is legitimate to steal from gentiles in the name of Torah can stop reading now, s/he will not agree with my conclusions without agreeing with the premises. [I understand that the above is an assumption; I can defend it, but let's assume you all agree for now].

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Much time has passed since I started writing this post. I think I'll let it air out, instead of leaving it unpublished. Enjoy!