copyrights myths
I thought this topic would be interesting: the different myths about copyright. Before I start I want to be clear that I do not see anything wrong with copyright. I think that it is an important provision put in place in order to safeguard the works of artists. It is very important that they be recognized for their works. What I have a problem with is the extend at which the copyright laws are stretched. Even thought they are not enforced, sooner or later someone is going to take the fall for the violations of copyright laws. As we know, Google is already in trouble on this topic.
Anyways, here are some of the myths about it:
1.If there is no symbol of the copyright on the work, then it is ok to use it.
Wrong: the symbol has not been used since 1989, but the laws still applies
2.If the work is too old and the owner is dead, it is ok to use it.
Wrong: whether the owner is dead or not, if the work is still under copyright, the law still applies
3.if I use it for educational purposes, then I have fair use
Wrong: it is important to look at the Fair Use laws, because almost everything can be considered as fair use
4.if it is the author’s work, then it is ok for him to use it
Wrong: Some authors sign off some of their rights, so they themselves need to make sure that it is ok for them to use their own work
5. if I copy a little bit, then it is ok
Wrong: even if 1% of the work is being use, to be on the safe side, do the research before using it
Comments