How Copyright Bots Killed the Hugo Awards

[Sita]

io9.com/5940036/how-copyright-enforcement-robots-killed-the-hugo-awards

The last paragraph says it all:

The point is, our ability to broadcast was entirely dependent on poorly-programmed bots. And once those bots had made their incorrect decision, there was absolutely nothing we could do to restart the signal, as it were. In case anyone still believes that copyright rules can't stop free speech or snuff out a community, the automated censorship of the Hugo Awards is a case in point.

Robots killed our legitimate broadcast. Welcome to the present.

[marisol]

I'll be damned we can't do anything any more. My brother and I are planning an escape, all
we need is money. I figure we can make it by selling everything we own, plus his ex's house.
Which belongs to him anyway. Now where shall we go?

[Random Panther]

I'll bet that wouldn't happen at the Oscars or the Acadamy Awards.

[ayezatulbrite]

what a great way to censor the internet!


we can censor all kinds of opinion and information

and what's the big deal with copyright anyway?

why is copyright automatic?

why does it last longer than patent?

why the hell does it have to last so long?

why can't it last for only 5 years?

why 70 years or whatever it is?

WHYY?

[Sita]

from the copyright website:

As a general rule, for works created after January 1, 1978, copyright protection lasts for the life of the author plus an additional 70 years. For an anonymous work, a pseudonymous work, or a work made for hire, the copyright endures for a term of 95 years from the year of its first publication or a term of 120 years from the year of its creation, whichever expires first.

which is entirely too long, imo

[ayezatulbrite]

how come patents only get around 17 - 20 years and you have to pay an annual renewal fee???

surely some patents have benefitted the human race more than the works of Cliff Richard?!?

eh???