Answer
CDs are pretty rugged, and the error correcting codes they use can handle lots of scratches and dings. I have read that CDs are dishwasher safe, and if they can handle that they certainly can handle a few fingerprints!

But it is a "better safe than sorry" sort of thing. Keeping your fingers off of of the CD reduces oil and dust, which helps keep the laser and motor inside the drive clean.

CDs are really quite amazing - see the HSW article on CDs for complete details.

Places to buy music CDs:

• CD Universe
• 800.com
• EveryCD - interesting pricing

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