Sidebar: Copyright conundrum

Without the First Amendment, industries like media, entertainment, arts and technology would look very different. But without copyright, there would be no incentive for a writer to get that manuscript published or a musician to get their song out there for the world to hear.

Would you believe us if we told you copyright law is the biggest regulation on free speech in the United States?

When you exercise your First Amendment right to paint a picture or write the next great American novel, your speech belongs to you. No one can take it and pass it off as their own.

But when all the power is vested solely in one person, the rights of others slowly begin to dwindle.

If you think copyright is just a term for media executives and lawyers, come along as we unravel its constitutional underpinnings.

In our fifth episode this season, we dissect this intricate balance that copyright law maintains between protecting creators and ensuring the public’s unfettered access to cultural treasures, detailing the symbiotic relationship between artistic works and the fundamental right to speak freely.

Special guests:

Sidebar tackles the top stories you need to know from the legal world. Join reporters Hillel Aron, Kirk McDaniel, Amanda Pampuro and Kelsey Reichmann as they take you in and out of courtrooms in the U.S. and beyond and break down developments to help you understand how they affect your day-to-day life.

This episode was produced by Kirk McDaniel. Intro music by The Dead Pens. A transcript is available.

Editorial staff is Bill Dotinga, Sean Duffy and Jamie Ross.

Categories / First Amendment, Podcast, Technology

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Sidebar: Copyright conundrum

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