I think we have to take the analogies for what they are: a simple comparison to break down a complex topic into familiar terms. Once you move from informational purposes to application, a simple analogy isn't good enough. You have to start learning the limitations of whatever you're using.

Case in point: the RIAA/MPAA. They took the analogy and ran with it just as you said. That's not the fault of the analogy or the people who first used it.