Prosecutors say it would be next to impossible to get one teen to testify in court that another had slipped him or her a copied disc at lunchtime. And besides, isn't sharing music a time-honored part of teen friendship?

Charles Duhigg’s quote highlights the difficulty of prosecuting cases where teens are involved in sharing pirated music. The statement points out that it would be nearly impossible for one teen to testify against another in a legal setting, especially when it comes to something as informal as exchanging a copied disc. The quote draws attention to the inherent informality and trust involved in such exchanges, which complicates the legal process.

The second part of the quote questions the very nature of the legal issue by suggesting that sharing music has long been a tradition in teen friendships. Duhigg implies that this practice, though technically illegal in the context of copyright law, is so deeply ingrained in youth culture that it feels like a natural and harmless act of bonding between friends. The idea of prosecuting it seems almost absurd, as it conflicts with the social understanding of friendship and sharing among teenagers.

Duhigg's comment likely stems from his background in journalism, where he often explores societal trends and their impact on law and behavior. This quote reflects his ability to critically examine how cultural practices, like music sharing, intersect with legal systems and the tension that arises between the two. It highlights the generational gap between legal norms and social behaviors.

The origin of the quote speaks to the larger discussion about copyright infringement and the way modern technology, particularly in the digital age, has changed the way people perceive ownership and sharing. Duhigg's analysis here challenges readers to think about the broader implications of enforcing laws in a rapidly changing cultural landscape.