In my blogging efforts (going back now some 20 years) I cite hundreds of others' (predominantly) print works, excerpted from books, periodicals, and myriad news sources. I continue to do so often at considerable length. Some might find this practice an "abuse" of the Fair Use provision of US Copyright Law.
I obviously do not. Here's specifically why.
- I have never engaged in such conduct for any sort of personal or business entity financial benefit (in fact I've now been retired and "unemployed" since May 2013);
- I am consistently scrupulous to cite (and link where possible) the author(s)/copyright holders, with the intent of potentially adding to their remunerative potential—not afflicting it;
- The core of my motive is to share with and expose my readers to the precise works of others whose efforts I respect and value. I have opinions just like any person, and, while I never shrink from expressing them, I simply find it a compelling priority to enable readers to decide relative merits of observations and arguments made by authors for themselves;
- Notwithstanding the relative "length" of my cites, they remain a small fraction of the typical Amazon "download a free sample" freebie, which frequently run to well in excess of an hour (or more) of reading;
- Again, "motive." It is solely about helping spread worthy information, regarding which there is never a shortage. Full Stop.
Nonetheless, if that givea anyone ostensibly "actionable" heartburn, I will promptly take down anything an aggrieved copyright claimant demands. Such has yet to happen.
In good faith.
