Defining Property

Paul Graham’s essay Defining Property argues that property definitions evolve based on practical utility rather than abstract principle.

The Central Metaphor

A Japanese folktale: a judge rules against a shop owner claiming a student stole his cooking “smells.” This illustrates that treating something as property only makes sense in certain conditions.

Property is Contextual

“What counts as property depends on what works to treat as property. And that not only can change, but has changed.” Hunter-gatherers didn’t treat land as property like modern societies do.

The Current Shift

Digital technology changed how information distributes. “Data moves like smells now”—abundant and difficult to control. Recording labels fight this shift through lawsuits and legislation.

The Problem

“Crazy legal measures” distort society. This is evidence the property definition doesn’t actually work.

The Solution

Multiple sovereign countries and functioning democracies prevent monopolistic control. Societies must adapt gracefully rather than preserving obsolete frameworks.

My Takeaway

Property definitions should match reality, not fight it.

How do you think about digital property? I’d love to hear at persdre@gmail.com.