The book is considered a foundational text in digital ethics and communication studies, analyzed by experts from Cornell University and Stanford Law School . While some reviewers noted that its 2007 predictions about total encryption were slightly excessive, it remains highly cited for its analysis of the sociopolitical arrangements behind DRM.

: The failed attempt to develop copy protection for portable music players.

: A recurring theme is how these technical barriers undermine traditional public rights, such as fair use and cultural expression, effectively "wiring shut" digital culture to all but paying customers. Impact and Reception

: Content industries use encryption and digital locks to solve what they perceive as social and economic problems (like file sharing), which effectively changes the relationship between law and technology.