The Software Industry's Identity Crisis
Linked by David Adams on Tue 26th Oct 2004 16:30 UTC
Editorial The software industry is undergoing a gradual transformation, and consumer fatigue is at its root. The licensing model that has formed the basis for the modern software industry is facing challenges on many fronts, and the industry is scrambling to keep its footing. Where this period of change may lead software producers and consumers isn't quite clear, but some trends are emerging. Since the proliferation of the internet, unauthorized redistribution of digital goods has become rampant. But although software sharing probably won't kill the software industry, the reasoning behind it shares some pedigree with the customer revolt that promises to transform the way software is sold.
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@ claus
by KadyMae on Wed 27th Oct 2004 01:07 UTC

Demand and Supply usually determine prices, and the theory explains the differences of diamonds and water prices perfectly.>>

The key being "usually" determine prices.

DeBeers controls sales on 2/3 of the world's Diamonds. At fixed times the each year they offer "sight holders" an opportunity to buy diamonds. The prices and quantity are fixed and non-negotiable.

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There's also

http://www.straightdope.com/columns/040903.html

and

http://www.shaneco.com/jewelry/debeers.asp

Diamonds cost what they do because DeBeers says they cost that much.