Golike and Shapiro's Digital Speech Acts Empower Copyright Control

In their recent paper, 'Digital Speech Acts Retain Control of Copyright with People, Not Platforms,' James Golike and Ehud Shapiro introduce the concept of digital speech acts as a method for creators to retain copyright ownership. This framework challenges traditional centralized digital platforms by advocating for grassroots platforms where users operate independently. By utilizing cryptographic signatures on personal devices, individuals can assert authorship and accountability over their content, ensuring that their rights remain intact.

The authors argue that digital speech acts qualify for copyright protection under established U.S. legal precedents. They reference cases like Burrow-Giles and Feist to support their claims, emphasizing that the creative choices of individuals satisfy the criteria for copyright. Moreover, the design of these grassroots platforms ensures that ownership and content are inseparable, promoting a digital social contract that fosters sovereignty and democratic self-governance. This model not only empowers creators but also challenges the current paradigm of data ownership and control, offering a path towards a more equitable digital landscape.