Meaning: The quote by Johannes Rau, a German statesman, speaks to the concerns and challenges presented by technological progress in the context of copyright and intellectual property. Rau acknowledges the worries of many individuals, not limited to those present in the auditorium where the quote was likely delivered, regarding the impact of technological advancements on the accessibility and use of protected works.

Rau's reference to "technical progress" reflects the rapid advancements in digital technology and the internet, which have significantly transformed the way people access, share, and use creative and intellectual content. This progress has indeed lowered the threshold that prevents individuals from utilizing protected works without hesitation or ethical consideration.

The statement implies a recognition of the dual nature of technological progress in the realm of intellectual property. On one hand, technological advancements have facilitated greater access to a wide array of creative works, enabling individuals to explore and engage with diverse content in ways that were previously unimaginable. On the other hand, this increased accessibility has raised concerns about the potential for unauthorized use, reproduction, and distribution of copyrighted material.

One of the key implications of Rau's statement is the need for a nuanced and balanced approach to address the intersection of technology and intellectual property rights. As digital tools and platforms continue to evolve, it becomes essential to find mechanisms that uphold the rights of creators and rights holders while also fostering innovation, creativity, and the free flow of information.

The phrase "helping themselves to protected works without the slightest embarrassment" underscores the ethical and moral dimensions of the issue. It suggests a lack of consideration or respect for the legal and moral rights of creators and copyright holders. This behavior can be attributed, at least in part, to the perceived anonymity and ease of sharing and accessing digital content in the online environment.

In today's digital landscape, the ease of copying and disseminating protected works has led to a range of challenges, including online piracy, unauthorized sharing of copyrighted material, and the proliferation of platforms that facilitate the distribution of such content without proper authorization.

To address these concerns, legal frameworks and technological solutions have been developed to protect intellectual property rights in the digital age. Copyright laws have been updated to encompass digital formats and online distribution, while technological measures such as digital rights management (DRM) and watermarking have been employed to safeguard content from unauthorized use.

Additionally, the concept of fair use and fair dealing has been a subject of ongoing debate and interpretation in the context of digital content. It seeks to balance the rights of creators with the public's interest in accessing and utilizing copyrighted material for purposes such as education, criticism, and commentary.

Furthermore, the development of licensing models and content distribution platforms has provided creators and rights holders with alternative avenues to monetize their work while allowing controlled access to users.

In conclusion, Johannes Rau's quote encapsulates the complex and multifaceted challenges arising from the intersection of technological progress and intellectual property rights. It underscores the need for a thoughtful and inclusive approach that considers the perspectives of creators, consumers, and technological innovators to ensure the continued protection and promotion of creative expression in the digital age.