Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Business Law Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of copyright?

1. It allows for the reproduction of works.

2. It is valid for an indefinite period.

3. It protects original works of authorship.

4. It grants the author exclusive rights.

The correct answer is: It is valid for an indefinite period.

The statement that copyright is valid for an indefinite period is not a characteristic of copyright. In reality, copyright protection has a limited duration. According to current laws, copyright typically lasts for the life of the author plus a specific number of years (commonly 70 years in many jurisdictions). After this period, the work enters the public domain, allowing anyone to use it without permission. In contrast, the other characteristics are accurate representations of copyright. Copyright indeed allows for the reproduction of works, enabling authors to control how their creations are used. Furthermore, it specifically protects original works of authorship, which includes various forms of creative expression such as literature, music, and visual art. Additionally, copyright grants the author exclusive rights to their work, allowing them to determine how it can be used, distributed, and adapted. These aspects collectively emphasize the intended protective framework of copyright law, distinguishing it from perpetual protections.