Understanding the Difference Between Public Domain and Fair Use

If you are interested in intellectual property, it's essential to grasp the distinctions between public domain and fair use. Intellectual property refers to creations of the mind, such as inventions, literary and artistic works, designs, and symbols. Individuals who care about intellectual property often include creators, inventors, artists, and businesses looking to protect their innovations.

Public Domain

Public domain works are not protected by intellectual property laws, which means they are freely available for anyone to use. When a work enters the public domain, it can be used without permission or restrictions. Examples of public domain content include works whose copyrights have expired or works explicitly dedicated to the public domain.

Scenario: Using Public Domain Works

Imagine you want to use a classic novel, like