Isn't scanning a physical book and uploading a soft-copy, a landmine of hazards (both legal and moral)? Essentially you are encouraging (some) unlawful activity... I am not so sure I am onboard with this idea!
It’s easy to take this stance in a rich country. But what about the people in countries where one of these books cost the equivalent of a year’s wages. Not so black and white eh?
As far as I know, prices of books differ between rich and developing nations. For e.g., The C Programming Language that costs $50 in the US [1], is sold for Rs. 259 (~$4 US) in India. I believe that is the case with most "economy editions" specifically targeted at developing nations. It certainly isn't an "year's wages".
While I do understand your point, it still does not justify encouraging modern-day Robinhoods' and breaking the law.
Economy editions are nice, but only make up a tiny fraction of what's out there to consume. Again, $4 is great for a relatively rich nation like India, but what about Eritrea?
Maybe that was a little flippant, but The Law in a big rich country is pretty meaningless to someone trying to make a better life for themselves in a poor country.