Who Owns This Sentence?: A History of Copyrights and Wrongs

Copyright is a complex web of laws that covers almost all products of human creativity, with its roots in eighteenth-century London. It has been argued against since its inception, but a few changes in the late twentieth century have concentrated ownership of immaterial goods in the hands of a few. Who Owns This Sentence? argues that copyright is an engine of inequality in the twenty-first century.

Format: Hardback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 18 January 2024
Publisher: Headline Publishing Group

Copyright is a pervasive phenomenon that permeates various aspects of our lives. Our smartphones, which contain an array of intellectual property, are a testament to this. Photographs of our dining tables, for instance, may have reproduction rights assigned to someone. Moreover, the realm of copyright is currently embroiled in intense debates, particularly concerning the output of artificial intelligence programs. It is not just books that are now considered intellectual properties; wallpaper, computer programs, and even cuddly toys have been added to this list. This intricate web of laws, known as copyright, encompasses almost all products of human creativity, creating a complex and labyrinthine structure.

The origins of copyright can be traced back to eighteenth-century London, where it was initially established to curb the control of printers over books. However, principled objections against copyright emerged early on, and it came close to being abolished in the nineteenth century. Nevertheless, a series of unnoticed changes in the late twentieth century resulted in the concentration of ownership of immaterial goods into the hands of a few.

Who Owns This Sentence? is a captivating cultural, legal, and global exploration of the concept that intangible things can be owned. It offers a thought-provoking examination of copyright and presents a compelling argument for viewing it as a driver of inequality in the twenty-first century. Through its engaging narrative and insightful analysis, the book sheds light on the complex dynamics surrounding copyright ownership and its impact on society.

Weight: 614g
Dimension: 164 x 244 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781914495878