The copyright fair use in scientific and publication activities

Abstract

Introduction. The use of research results, scientific statements, illustrations that come from other authors’ publications is a common research practice. It is part of the scientific discourse supporting the reuse and dissemination of knowledge and scientific findings. It should, however, respect the copyrights of other authors’ publications and the rules of permitted use within the framework of the so-called permitted use.

Material and methods. The analysis of the principles and limits of the use of material from other people’s publications in publishing and scientific activities includes national and international standards in the field of copyright, protection of personal rights and ethics in science.

Results and discussion. In order for individual authors and research centers to legally use previous publications and their elements in their own scientific activities, they should apply the rules on permitted use. These include the so-called right of quotation, the statutory license for scientific and research institutions and the so-called reprinting right. The enrichment of one’s own publications with excerpts from previous scientific studies and their graphical elements is permitted as long as it serves the purpose of research, clarification, scientific and critical analysis and respects the authorship of the source material. The marking of the source and the author is a required practice also with regard to content that is not protected by copyright but is the result of scientific creation.

Summary. The use of other people’s fragments of publications and illustrations within the framework of permitted use does not require the consent of the copyright owner and payment of remuneration for the use, but must take place under the terms and within the limits set by copyright law and take into account the standards of reliable recognition of other authors research and scientific findings. Failure to comply or misapplication of this obligation may result in an allegation of infringement of copyright or personal interest in the form of scientific creation and may interfere with recognized standards of integrity in science.