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Intellectual Property Law I (Copyright, Privacy and Publicity)

Overview

  • Credit value: 15 credits at Level 6
  • Convenor: Dr Henrique Carvalho
  • Assessment: a two-hour examination (100%)

Module description

From the books we read, to the technology we use, to the clothes we wear, to the information we receive and produce, we constantly interact with the subject matter of the various regimes of intellectual property. In this module we will cover core concepts and doctrines in the law of copyright, privacy and passing off with a particular emphasis on legal technique, while also stimulating critical reflection on how intellectual property affects our lives.

We will approach the subject through a detailed analysis of the elements of copyright law: what copyright law includes and excludes; whose labour it rewards; how works are exploited; and which actions can and cannot be controlled by the copyright owner. Dealing with the many subtleties and technical complexities of copyright law we will pay particular attention to the role of vagueness in copyright law. Towards the end of the module we will explore how the actions of misuse of private information and passing off can be mobilised to manage the relationship between artists, works and their audiences.

This module will appeal to you if you are planning to specialise in commercial law or are interested in learning about the legal infrastructure of the arts and entertainment sector.

Indicative syllabus

  • Conceptual foundations of intellectual property law
  • Copyright: context and history, subject matter authorship and ownership, infringement and defences
  • Privacy and publicity: the politics of celebrity, misuse of private information, false endorsement and character merchandising

Learning objectives

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

  • operate effectively with key legislation, case law and legal doctrines, of UK copyright law and the legal protection of privacy and publicity interests
  • demonstrate a solid understanding of core concepts and legal doctrines in copyright law, misuse of private information and passing off
  • analyse complex practical issues involving the exploitation of copyright works, as well as privacy and publicity interests, and offer informed and structured advice on disputes involving the commercial exploitation of intangible assets
  • explore conceptual and socio-economic dimensions of these areas of intellectual property law.