:: M squared T ::

:: Thursday, November 18, 2004 ::

A Class Act Trying To Deal With Copyright Infringement

Gary Larson (The Far Side) doesn't want his cartoons illegally copied and distributed on the Internet. In fact, he's got lawyers tracking the 'net for his 'toons.

A web site I visited posted a copy of the note they received when they posted a "Far Side" panel. http://blog.revmike.us/archives/000646.html

Larson's request for sites to remove his material is very respectful; in the case I read, this engendered respect in return. The site removed the cartoon.

As someone for whom copyright law put food on the table for many years, I understand the frustration of artists, authors, musicians and scholars whose work is abused. Whether its name be plagiarism, bootlegging, misquoting or misinterpretation, inappropriate use of copyrighted materials does more than just take money away from the artist, producer, et al. The creator of the work often feels personally injured by inappropriate use. It's not about the money, at least for me. It's a matter of respect.


:: Matt 11/18/2004 11:45:00 AM :: permalink :: ::
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