Question

5-7 Jennings text, p. 530, Ethical Issues

Ethical Issues:

Google has been copying and posting portions of books and in some cases, full books for access via the Google search system. Google refers to many of the excerpts as "snippets." However, authors have filed a class action suit against Google for infringement. Evaluate the legal issues in the use of snippets. Evaluate the ethical issues in Google's mass reproduction of the books.

1. Is the use for commercial or nonprofit/educational use?
2. Is the work large or small or a song poem, or book?
3. What is the effect of the use on the copyrighted work?

Answer 1

It is illegal to use any book for commercial purpose without any written lawful consent of the owner of the copyright of the book. Google uses many books, partly or fully and it is done fully obeying the copyright law. There are citation of many books and in such case the prior permission of the concerned owner of the copywriter is taken. One can use it for personal use by purchasing books.

again, for publishing work one may take the help of any book. He may use some parts or comments of the author. In such case the concerned user needs to mention the name of the book with full details at citation. If one does not do so, then he may be charged for the violation of the copywriter law. If one uses fully the others book or parts of books, then he needs to contact legally with the copywriter. Otherwise legal steps are taken against the accused person or concern for the violation of the copywriter rules.