Unlocking the potential of creative commons for Hong Kong's education and creative sectors

Abstract

Creative Commons is a non-profit organisation founded by Professor Lawrence Lessig in the United States. The organisation seeks to replace the default rule of "All Rights Reserved" under copyright law with a fl exible "Some Rights Reserved" approach in order to promote the wider dissemination of knowledge and innovation in society. It achieves its aims by offering user-friendly copyright licences which authors and creators can attach to their works so as to encourage free use and remix by others within the prescribed limits. Creative Commons licences have been adapted to Hong Kong copyright law since 2008. This article contends that the current copyright system fails to promote the education and creativity of the young generation and examines how Creative Commons could assume a pivotal role in advancing the education and creative sectors in Hong Kong. Case studies are drawn from the local community and overseas where appropriate.