Parthasarathy, M., & Mittelstaedt, R. A. (1995). Illegal adoption of a new product: A model of software piracy behavior. Advances in Consumer Research, 22, 693-698.
This paper is concerned with the decision process of computer software adopters, especially pirates. Based on past research, a model is proposed that contains two general normative constructs that influence the general attitude toward piracy. Other specific variables, e.g., perceived utility of the software, the tendency to rely on complementary products and on others (in order to reduce learning costs) are also included and the impact of all these variables on an individual’s propensity to pirate a software program is investigated. Finally, implications, particularly managerial, of this analysis are presented.
