QUOTE(BlueHeng @ Aug 19 2008, 09:06 PM)
To all magicians/ hobbyist:
I have a question for you guys regarding knowledge sharing and ethics. I've realized in most magic forums, people are often super duper 'protective' of their knowledge.. and to them, you have to spend if you wanna learn. Now my question is this.. is it wrong to teach others magic? I mean certainly not SPOIL the trick, but is it wrong to teach? For example, you buy a math book... or a 'how to do C programming' book... and you read it.. then teach others. I'm sure that's fine with anyone right? But why not magic?
Another question here: Nowadays you see those magic authors selling their dvds or books which cost a bomb. Imagine a dvd for USD20 just for 1 routine!!! Do you think it's wrong if a group of people (lets say 8 people) buy and share the dvd together?
Okay, speaking out my point of view. Personally thinking, it's not wrong to share with others, but, you have to know the person better first before teaching. If he's one that you THINK will keep the secret and practise well before performing, then go on. But, teach some magic tricks/ sleight of hand like DL, self-working trick, svengali... Don't teach tricks that the creator of the trick is still alive. Cause, i think that if he wants to learn that trick, he should buy it. If don't want to buy, then think of your own trick. This is only apply on the magic tricks that the creator is still alive.

While for sharing, think is okay as long as all the people in the group will keep the secret and perform it well.
P/S: All of these are just my POV.