Copyright law is designed to protect creators and the works that they create, but it has always been problematic. Realistically it is supposed to work in a way that is similar to the patent system, protecting the financial and ownership interests of creators. If we fail to copyright, we risk stifling original content. Why would anyone create something if they know it could be immediately stolen by someone else and claimed as their own along with any financial rewards that might come along with it?

At the same time, we need to be realistic. Critics should be able to quote from the works they are criticizing without risking repercussions and comedians and others should have some leeway to parody works, as this is creativity in its own right. And what about the use of creative works in education? Is it realistic to charge every time even a small part of creative work is used?

The Internet and new technology have made copyright issues even more complicated. It is now far easier to copy and alter creative works.

To address these changes, copyright law is constantly evolving and the courts are frequently asked to make decisions on specific cases.

Despite this, there are some guidelines you can follow to both protect your own copyright and ensure that you are not violating the copyright of others.