wrote:
Do I have to buy a complete new program for each of my
home computers and laptop now that they have the activate
feature on Office 2003?

The activation feature was introduced in 2000 second release (when it
shippped with SP1) - it's nothing peculiar to 2003.

I don't think I would have
purchased the product if that is the case.

You've either never had Office before, or your last version (2000 SR1 or
earlier) didn't require activation so you stole the licences.

OEM - 1 system (the one it came with, or was first installed on. Non
transferable).
Retail - 2 systems - one desktop and one laptop, providing they are used
exclusively by the licencee and aren't in use simultaneously. 2 desktops or
two laptops = 2 licences.
Student and Teachers Edition (2003 only) is licensed for installation on
three systems in any combination.