Editing First-sale doctrine (section)

=== The Perverted Language of Ownership ===
For centuries, words like "purchase" and "buy" have been understood to signify the transfer of ownership. Historically, these terms carried inherent meanings:

* '''"Purchase"''': Denoted a formal transaction resulting in the buyer obtaining full control and ownership over the item.
* '''"Buy"''': Implicitly granted the right to use, modify, sell, or transfer the acquired good without interference from the seller.

In recent years, however, these words have been co-opted by corporations to describe transactions that do not transfer true ownership. Many digital retailers, subscription services, and manufacturers of connected devices continue to use these terms while imposing severe restrictions on what consumers can actually do with the products they "buy."

==== Examples of Perversion ====

* '''E-Books and Digital Media''': Platforms like Amazon and Apple encourage consumers to "buy" e-books, movies, and music. In reality, consumers merely acquire a license to access the content, which can be revoked at any time.
* '''Software Licensing''': Companies like Adobe and Microsoft describe transactions as purchases despite being licensed, a fact which is hidden in their end-user license agreements (EULAs).
* '''Connected Devices''': Fitness equipment, gaming consoles, and even cars increasingly come with restrictions that prevent full ownership, despite consumers paying the full retail price.

==== Implications ====
This shift in language has profound consequences:

* '''Erosion of Trust''': Consumers believe they are acquiring full ownership based on centuries-old meanings of "purchase," only to discover hidden limitations.
* '''Legal Ambiguity''': The disconnect between traditional and modern definitions creates confusion and undermines long-standing legal principles like the First Sale Doctrine.
* '''Normalization of Restrictions''': By co-opting established terms, corporations normalize anti-consumer practices, making it harder for individuals to recognize and challenge these policies.