Why Lakoff still matters: Framing the debate on copyright law and digital publishing

Authors

  • Diane Gurman UCLA

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5210/fm.v14i6.2354

Abstract

In 2004, linguist and cognitive scientist George Lakoff popularized the idea of using metaphors and “frames” to promote progressive political issues. Although his theories have since been criticized, this article asserts that his framing is still relevant to the debate over copyright law as applied to digital publishing, particularly in the field of scholarly journals. Focusing on issues of copyright term extension and the public domain, open access, educational fair use, and the stewardship and preservation of digital resources, this article explores how to advocate for change more effectively — not by putting a better “spin” on proposed policies — but by using coherent narratives to frame the issues in language linked to progressive values.

Author Biography

Diane Gurman, UCLA

Graduate student, Information Studies, UCLA

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Published

2009-05-18

How to Cite

Gurman, D. (2009). Why Lakoff still matters: Framing the debate on copyright law and digital publishing. First Monday, 14(6). https://doi.org/10.5210/fm.v14i6.2354