What is the overall goal of utilizing the Fair Use Doctrine?

The overall goal of utilizing the Fair Use Doctrine is to protect the rights of authors while promoting public access. This legal principle allows for the limited use of copyrighted materials without seeking permission from the copyright owner, under specific circumstances. Fair use exists to balance the interests of creators in protecting their works and the interests of the public in accessing and using those works, especially for purposes such as education, criticism, commentary, or research.

This balance is crucial because it encourages creativity and innovation by allowing individuals and educators to reference existing works without facing prohibitive costs or legal barriers. The Fair Use Doctrine does not grant unlimited usage of creative works; rather, it allows for a thoughtful approach to how and when copyrighted materials can be used, fostering a culture of sharing knowledge while still respecting the rights of creators.