How to Fix Copyright

How to Fix Copyright takes on the challenge of proposing reforms to copyright law for the digital age. Written by William Patry, former copyright counsel to the U.S. House of Representatives and senior copyright counsel at Google, the book examines current copyright policies and their real-world impacts. The text moves systematically through key aspects of copyright law, from term lengths to enforcement mechanisms to fair use provisions. Patry draws on decades of legal experience and research to analyze specific cases and policy decisions that have shaped today's copyright landscape. Through historical examples and economic data, the book builds a case for a more balanced approach to copyright protection. The arguments focus on how copyright can better serve its original purpose of promoting creativity and innovation while adapting to technological change. The work stands as both a critique of current copyright policy and a blueprint for potential reform, highlighting tensions between creative freedom and intellectual property rights. Its analysis raises fundamental questions about the role of copyright in culture and commerce.

Readers appreciate Patry's clear analysis of copyright problems and his insider perspective as former copyright counsel to the U.S. House of Representatives. Several reviewers note his effective use of real-world examples and data to support arguments. Positive comments focus on: - Thorough research and citations - Clear explanations of complex legal concepts - Evidence-based approach to reform proposals Common criticisms include: - Solutions section is shorter than problem analysis - Writing can be dry and academic - Some proposals seem politically unfeasible Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (42 ratings) Amazon: 4.1/5 (21 ratings) Notable reader quotes: "Provides concrete evidence of how current copyright law hurts creators more than it helps them" - Goodreads reviewer "Strong on identifying issues but weaker on realistic fixes" - Amazon reviewer "Dense but rewarding read for anyone interested in copyright reform" - LibraryThing review

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🔖 William Patry served as copyright counsel to the U.S. House of Representatives and as a Policy Planning Advisor to the U.S. Register of Copyrights before becoming Senior Copyright Counsel at Google. 📚 The book argues that current copyright laws are based on an outdated model from the 1700s, when copying was difficult and expensive, rather than today's digital reality. 💡 Patry proposes reducing copyright terms to 14 years (with an optional renewal), rather than the current life of the author plus 70 years. 📖 Despite being critical of current copyright law, Patry emphasizes he is not against copyright itself—he's authored an eight-volume treatise on U.S. copyright law that's considered an authoritative text in the field. 🌐 The book examines how Japan and South Korea have successfully balanced copyright protection with technological innovation, suggesting their policies as potential models for reform.