The interdependency of fair use and the first amendment

Abstract

The rights of free speech, to search for truth, to strive for self-realization, and to participate in the processes of self-government, are guaranteed in the first amendment; but these rights would not be possible without the grant of public access to information provided by the doctrine of fair use in the copyright clause. Because quick and complete copy and dissemination of information is made simple through digitization and electronic transfer, many corporate intellectual property lawyers and political lobbyists are pressuring for tightening the public access provided in fair use; thus, it is of heightened importance that educators and other members of the public understand the interdependent nature of fair use and the first amendment and that the existence of fair use is necessary lifeblood to free speech.