What does copyright protect?

Copyright primarily protects the rights to control the use of original works. This includes various forms of expression such as literature, music, art, and other creative outputs that are fixed in a tangible medium. By granting creators these rights, copyright law enables them to authorize who can reproduce, distribute, perform, or display their work, ensuring that unauthorized use can be challenged legally. This protection is crucial as it allows creators to benefit from their work and encourages further innovation and creativity within society.

In contrast, while the rights of individuals to express their opinions might be related to the broader concept of free speech, such rights are not specifically covered under copyright law. Financial earnings of organizations and the distribution of marketing materials also do not fall under the protections provided by copyright, as these concepts are more about commercial interests and business operations rather than the safeguarding of original creative expressions. Thus, the essence of copyright lies in the control over how original works are used by others.