Ethics, AI, and Authorship: Breaking New Ground
After our in-depth look at character development techniques, I want to take some time to delve into the issue of Ethics, AI, and Authorship as it deals with Copyright. This is the first of a new mini-series for the AI Assisted Writer. While this is by no means legal advice, I want to deepen and expand the discussion on this important, and constantly evolving topic.
A Quick Look at Copyright Law
At its heart, copyright law protects creators. It's the shield every creator holds, whether they're a bestselling novelist or an indie filmmaker. Think of it as a safety net for artists and writers. It's been around since the 18th century and has done a solid job ensuring creators can control how their works are used.
In today's digital age, this shield is more important than ever. With the ease of copying, sharing, and remixing content, the lines of originality can blur. Copyright law ensures creators not only get credit for their work but also have control over how it's shared and used. This protection motivates them to keep pushing boundaries, taking risks, and pouring their heart into their work, knowing it won't be taken without their say-so.
However, the digital era, with its myriad advancements, has begun to challenge this long-established framework. Enter Artificial Intelligence, a force potent enough to prompt us to reconsider our understanding of authorship and originality.
This brings us to the intriguing tale of "Zarya of the Dawn."
The Story of "Zarya of the Dawn"
Created by Kris Kashtanova, "Zarya of the Dawn" blended the creativity of a human writer with the power of an AI image tool called Midjourney. The result? A comic book that blurred the lines between human-made and AI-generated content.
When the U.S. Copyright Office evaluated the AI-created images in the comic, they hit the pause button. They questioned whether these images should be protected by copyright law, especially since they weren't made by a human.
Why does this matter to our chat about AI and Copyright? Well, it's a real-world example of the challenges ahead. If AI is helping create art, who gets the credit? And more importantly, who gets the protection?
As it stands, the Copyright Office decided that the comic's text and overall design, made by Kashtanova, were protected. But the individual AI-created images? Not so much. This decision reminds artists using AI tools to be clear about how they're using them and what it might mean for their work's protection.
What This Means for Modern Creators
Given all this, there are a few big takeaways for writers and artists:
Working with AI: AI is a powerful tool, but we need to be clear about where our work ends and the AI's begins.
Understanding Copyright: If you're using AI, not all parts of your work might be protected. It's crucial to know which bits are human-made and which are AI-generated.
Playing Fair: If we use AI, especially if it looks like someone else's style, we need to be straight up about it. Honesty is the best policy.
Keeping Up with the Law: Tech is moving fast, and the law is trying to catch up. If you're working with AI, stay in the loop. The rules might change!
Exploring New Frontiers: Yes, there are challenges, but AI also offers a world of new possibilities. It's a chance to push our creative boundaries and try something new.
Where Do We Go From Here?
This series will continue to dive deeper, covering topics like the difference between Ghostwriting and AI Content, AI vs. Stock Material, and how to keep your unique voice when working with AI. It's a journey, and there's a lot to explore.
As we step into this brave new world, let's remember the heart of creation: our imagination, our voice. While AI brings new tools to the table, it's our spirit and vision that truly bring stories to life. So, let's use tech wisely and keep our stories authentically ours.
Until next time,
R.M. Scholl.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article series is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It should not be construed as legal advice or as a substitute for obtaining advice from a qualified attorney or legal professional familiar with your particular situation. Laws and regulations can vary widely by jurisdiction and may change over time; therefore, you should consult with a legal professional to understand how current laws apply to your specific circumstances.
