Can a Computer be an Author - Copyright Aspects of Artificial Intelligence

Authors

Timothy L. Butler

Abstract

This note discusses the impact of current advances in computer science upon traditional copyright notions of authorship and originality. Finding that certain works created largely by computer are outside the ambit of federal copyright law, yet in need of protection for traditional policy reasons, the author explores several alternatives for providing copyright protection. A solution is proposed wherein the court presumes human authorship in machine created works, then, after ascertaining that the work meets the other requirements of federal copyright law, determines which individual is most deserving of copyright ownership.

Recommended Citation

Timothy L. Butler, Can a Computer be an Author - Copyright Aspects of Artificial Intelligence, 4 UC Law SF Comm. & Ent. L.J. 707 (1982).
Available at: https://repository.uclawsf.edu/hastings_comm_ent_law_journal/vol4/iss4/11