Re: "Collecting" vs. "Owing and not using"

[Peter Davis <pdavis@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

I would argue that collecting is actually more ethically justifiable
than using, since collectors tend to preserve and protect the items,
while users simply wear out the parts on a lot of pictures, most of
which, by their own admission, are suitable for the garbage!  One of
the worst offenders is Dr. T, who deliberately damages his Realists by
filing off the flash contact.  <Insert smiley for the humor-impaired.>

This whole discussion has gotten out of hand.  Neither collecting nor
using is on a higher moral ground than the other.  They're simply
different pursuits.  Yes, it's too bad that prices are so high, but,
as George points out, the Realist camera is a real bargain at today's
prices.  Also, the very unpopularity of stereo photography can lead to
some real finds at garage and estate sales, etc.  The best thing we
can all do is promote interest in stereo photography, thereby creating
a demand for newer, better and cheaper equipment.

-pd

--------
Peter Davis		       "Education is not the		 617/873-4145
BBN Educational Technologies	filling of a pail, but	    FAX: 617/873-2455
70 Fawcett Street		the lighting of a fire."       pdavis@xxxxxxx
Cambridge, MA 02138			-- W. B. Yeats

	URL:  http://copernicus.bbn.com/people/PDavis/


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