Cory Doctorow is a prominent Canadian-British blogger, journalist, and science fiction author whose career has been marked by a commitment to digital rights and innovative publishing practices. He co-founded the free software P2P company Opencola in 1999, which was pivotal in promoting file-sharing technologies. Following its acquisition by Open Text Corporation, Doctorow transitioned to the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) as the European Affairs Coordinator, where he played a crucial role in establishing the Open Rights Group, advocating for digital freedom and copyright reform.
In 2006, Doctorow embraced a full-time writing career, leveraging his expertise in technology and copyright issues. His debut novel, “Down and Out in the Magic Kingdom,” was groundbreaking as the first novel released under a Creative Commons license, allowing readers to share the electronic edition freely. This innovative approach not only garnered critical acclaim but also set a precedent for future authors in the digital age.
Doctorow’s influence extends beyond fiction; he has contributed to various publications, including Wired and Popular Science, and has been a vocal advocate against digital rights management (DRM). His essays and talks, such as the keynote at CopyCamp 2014, have sparked important conversations about the future of information sharing and copyright laws.
In recent years, Doctorow has continued to produce thought-provoking literature, including the acclaimed “Little Brother” series and the recent novel “Red Team Blues.” His work not only entertains but also educates readers on the complexities of technology and society, making him a vital voice in contemporary discussions on digital rights and ethics.