Copyright Debate

The Internet has created a unique opportunity for thieves as well as intellectuals or even a combination of the two. I have actually been interested in copyright law for a while in regards to sharing media and sampling music, but learned new things from Jason Hardin's talk. For example, I did not know that it is a felony to commit a copyright infringement involving more than 10 copies and a value of more than $2500. The laws on such matters can be rather confusing as many gray areas exist. The line of legality is constantly blurred with new lawsuits and questioning of what is right and wrong. One matter up for debate is the question of what falls under “fair use” and what is outright stealing. I have done a research paper on such laws before and know that Title 17 of the US Code concerning copyright states that to determine whether the use of a copyrighted work is fair use or not, one must consider “the purpose and character of the use,” “the nature of the copyrighted work,” “the amount and substantiality of the portion used in relation to the copyrighted work as a whole” and “the effect of the use upon the potential market for or value of the copyrighted work” which Jason Hardin also shared with us in class. This allows cases to be determined more fairly based on the specifics on the scenario, which I think is very important.  Many young creative minds using already existing art as pieces in a bigger picture should not be punished for their drive to express themselves and expand on previous ideas. Yet, artists deserve to receive recognition and be able to earn a living from their creative efforts. The future of online media and sampling should be handled with cooperation instead of reprimand. I personally hope a fair balance is reached between artists making profit and consumers being able to share and enjoy creative works, but I do not believe the solution to such issues is solved by massive companies suing individuals. 

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