This is a truly out-of-touch comment. People want their content first and foremost.
Besides, any kind of large-scale user revolt that isn't basically just a mob-like reaction is usually the result of a top-down, coordinated campaign. See the protests against SOPA/PIPA for an example - big websites had to throw their weight behind the idea for it to take hold. The web is simply too diverse and quick moving of a place to expect some kind of people's revolution when it comes to DRM.
I can't speak for the person you're responding to, but it doesn't seem like much of a mystery why non-techies don't know about the specific details of why they can't save a streamed movie to watch it offline, or in a non-approved open source video player. That glib attitude of captive audiences is exactly what DRM vendors prey upon. They know exactly how much they can get away with at this point.
> I can't speak for the person you're responding to, but it doesn't seem like much of a mystery why non-techies don't know about the specific details of why they can't save a streamed movie to watch it offline, or in a non-approved open source video player.
To me, the mystery is not that the people don't know about these details (these details are indeed somewhat complicated - I agree), but how much they don't care.
Non-tech users generally don't have the necessary knowledge and mental models to place technology the market is offering in context of what is possible. They think what's available, even if it's annoying, is the best that's possible. It always looks new and shiny, so it must be the limit of what could be. They don't realize that modern tech could be much more capable, and much more empowering, if not for constant shitty, greedy and people-hostile decisions made by those who make and sell it.
Of course they don't care, why would they be given a chance to? The anti-features, inconveniences and limitations are not advertised and are downplayed whenever anyone mentions them.
Besides, any kind of large-scale user revolt that isn't basically just a mob-like reaction is usually the result of a top-down, coordinated campaign. See the protests against SOPA/PIPA for an example - big websites had to throw their weight behind the idea for it to take hold. The web is simply too diverse and quick moving of a place to expect some kind of people's revolution when it comes to DRM.