Unlike patents which protect an idea, copyright protects the expression of an idea in the form of a manuscript, manual, a photograph, or a creative work. A piece of music or original software created is included in this category. The critical factor in determining whether a work is considered copyright protected depends on its originality. A common misconception arises when infringers or plagiarists imagine that it is permissible to copy a protected work in small amounts, e.g., a snatch of a song or a portion from a written work, especially if used non-commercially. However, there are rules determining fair use, concerning the purpose and nature of use. This depends on whether the use is commercial or not, the amount of work copied in relation to the original and a qualitative assessment, originality, and the impact of the copy on the market value of the original work and potential loss in revenue. Enforcement is stricter where music, a book or a work of art is easily recognisable. Academia or news, especially for teaching purposes is largely considered fair use. ....Click here for full details >>