The Economist is hosting an online debate on copyright law and policy. The proposition at issue is this: “This house believes that existing copyright laws do more harm than good.” Defending the motion is William (Terry) Fisher of Harvard; opposing the motion is Justin Hughes of Cardozo. There are other distinguished American copyright scholars and practitioners among the guest commentators. The event continues through this coming Friday, May 15.
The debate features little that will be new to anyone who has bathed in copyright law and scholarship over the last decade, but it’s refreshing to see the arguments on various sides given thoughtful presentation in a major mainstream venue.