Intelligent Machines (Audio) IM 819: Put The Fries in the Bag - Chaos at the Copyright Office
May 15, 2025
In a lively discussion, Emily M. Bender, a linguistics professor known for her critical views on AI, and Alex Hanna, a leader in AI ethics, delve into the murky waters of AI and copyright law. They highlight the inconsistencies of the Copyright Office regarding AI training and fair use rights. With a humorous nod to kitchen choices and the absurdities of tech regulations, the conversation spans the necessity for diverse viewpoints in navigating AI’s future while pondering the ethical complexities and societal implications of rapid tech advancements.
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Copyright Office AI Training Conflict
- The U.S. Copyright Office issued a report declaring AI training on copyrighted works may not be fair use.
- The authors of the report were fired shortly after, signaling political pressure and legal uncertainty.
Fair Use Encompasses AI Training
- Fair use law protects the right to read copyrighted works and includes using tools like crawlers or browsers for reading.
- Restricting AI training on copyrighted material could infringe on First Amendment rights to read and access information.
Author Reads AI Training Ban
- Jeff Jarvis narrated reading the copyright notice aloud for his audiobook which included a prohibition on AI training.
- He protested reading that line as he personally supports AI training and opposed that restriction.
