Ok, here is my problem with this post.
Should there be demos? Yes
Should the developers take time away from developing the game before release to deal with said demo? Personal Preference (I think they should wait)
Do I think pirating the game is a viable option if you're looking to try before you by: If that's what you're actually doing, and not just using it as an excuse, then sure.
So where is my problem with this? Well, chiefly because I can garentee that most of the people who claim they're just "trying it" never really planned to buy it in the first place. Which, honestly, I don't care, but if that's what you're going to do, keep it to yourself or own up to it. And while I have no remorse for the larger conglomorates like the MPAA and RIAA who are more concerned with trying to utilize lawsuits as a new form of income than hash out with people what media is "worth" in this new digital age and why it's worth it, there are a scant few companies that can really be considered "not evil" anymore, and Stardock is one if them. I mean, honestly, it's stuff like this that makes everyone look bad and makes progress impossible.
All I can say is I put up a few bucks on faith nearly half a year ago, got some fun out of it during the beta, a chance to help shape the game (thanks to the eager ears of the devs) and here at the end, I can't say I regret any of it.