Is that theft?

Question

A cover band packs a bar every Friday playing nothing but Taylor Swift. The bar charges $10 at the door. Taylor is not there. Taylor was not asked.

Accepted Answer

Trick exhibit. The bar buys a blanket license — ASCAP and BMI collect it and route pennies back to Taylor. Society's compromise for music: you must pay, but you don't have to ask. Keep that third option in your pocket. (22% of Americans answer "Theft" — floor est.)