Abstract
The emergence of the Internet has not only enabled widespread copying of digitized music, videos and information but has also facilitated sharing of these resources. Despite the fact that international conventions grant authors and other right holders a number of exclusive rights including the right of reproduction and the right of distribution of their works, Internet community seems to follow a distinct set of norms. The objective of this paper is to present the examples of common practices developed by Internet companies and users in the area of intellectual property. The norms of Internet users are so widespread in the international electronic commerce that they could serve as the basis for adjudicating disputes in the online world and be regarded as reflecting the values of Internet community. Governments could utilize the knowledge of Internet practices to supplement national and international regulation of electronic commerce. The knowledge of electronic commerce customs could thus enhance Internet-related legislation and make it better adjusted to the needs of the knowledge-based economy.
Recommended Citation
Polanski, Paul Przemyslaw, "Intellectual Property Law versus Customs and Values of the Internet Community" (2006). BLED 2006 Proceedings. 36.
https://aisel.aisnet.org/bled2006/36