Remix Culture - Standing on the shoulders of giants!
- eliciabullock81
- Nov 3, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Nov 7, 2024
In our digital age, creativity often thrives on the foundation of existing works. The concepts of copyright, fair use, and attribution play crucial roles in how we engage with and remix content. By acknowledging these principles, we not only respect the original creators but also embrace Sir Isaac Newton's words:" "If I can see farther, it is because I am standing on the shoulders of giants".
Copyright safeguards original works, ensuring creators receive credit and compensation for their efforts. However, fair use allows us to build upon these works in transformative ways—be it through commentary, criticism, or parody. This delicate balance encourages innovation while honouring the giants on whose shoulders we stand. This short remix video on what transformative means is designed to help illustrate the concept.
Video created by myself on Openshot
Attribution is essential in this process. It not only credits the original artists but also fosters a culture of respect and recognition within the creative community. When we incorporate elements from existing works, citing our sources ensures that we acknowledge the creativity that inspired us. This practice reinforces the idea that no work exists in isolation; instead, every piece of art, writing, or music is part of a broader dialogue.
As we remix and create new content, let’s remember that we are part of an ongoing legacy. By respecting copyright, exercising fair use responsibly, and providing proper attribution, we contribute to a rich tapestry of creativity. In doing so, we embody the spirit of the quote, “We can see further by standing on the shoulders of giants.” Embrace the giants, remix boldly, and create with integrity.
References:
Common Sense Education. (n.d.). Copyright law [Video]. Common Sense Education. https://www.commonsense.org/education/videos/creativity-copyright-and-fair-use
Wikipedia. (n.d.). Transformative use. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transformative_use
Popova, M. (n.d.) Standing on the Shoulders of Giants: The Story Behind Newton’s Famous Metaphor for How Knowledge Progresses. The Marginalian. https://www.themarginalian.org/2016/02/16/newton-standing-on-the-shoulders-of-giants/
Image created by myself using Wix Ai image creator.
"Accelerate Collaborating for Sustainability Conference 2013 (Guelph, ON)" by The Natural Step Canada is licensed under CC BY 2.0.
"Kreibel Mona Lisa Lollipop Tart" by bixentro is licensed under CC BY 2.0.
Great use of the "standing on the shoulders of giants" story to explain copyright law and transformation. I think as educators, we are so used to transformative work but it important to acknowledge the shoulders we are standing on when we adapt a worksheet or activity to fit our class's needs. At some point we may be the shoulders others are standing on and therefore it would be nice to be acknowledged for our work as well.