The next component to copyright is authorship. Multiple elements selected or arranged in an original way, may also qualify the meme as a protected compilation. Memes that contain both artistic and literary components may comprise both an artistic and literary work: originality may exist in their combination. Although originality seems like a low threshold to meet, memes may not exactly make the cut. In Canada, copyright protection is afforded to every original literary, dramatic, musical, and artistic work that is fixed. The etymology of the word may make sense, but can the same image be copied over and over without intellectual property repercussions? The term “ meme” was coined in 1976 by Richard Dawkins, who likened them to genes, because of how quickly they replicate and spread. Memes exist in collections, as they are often reposted by various creators, adding slight alterations. This text usually describes the image and outlines a feeling or idea that is culturally relevant and relatable.

Whether they’re coming from your dad, who finally posted a Bernie Sanders mitten meme to his Facebook feed, a year late, after pestering you for help (good luck, he now thinks you’re a tech tycoon and you will never see another day of peace) or your kid sister, who continues to remind you how old twenty-four is –memes are the universal language of laughter.Ī meme is simply a photo or video with text overlaid. It’s no secret that memes have taken the internet by storm. As part of the course requirements, students were asked to write a blog on a topic of their choice. Candidate at Osgoode Hall Law School, enrolled in Professor David Vaver’s 2021-2022 Intellectual Property Law & Technology Intensive Program.

Peace be with you meme