A university has "looked the other way" when its instructors make copies of academic articles written by authors and then distributed them to students so that students won't have to bear the expense of obtaining the articles. Who, if anyone, is liable for copyright infringement? Discuss.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Answer is The instructors and the university are liable for copyright infringement. The university is vicariously liable due to its special relationship with the teachers. It can be liable for vicarious infringement even if it did not know infringement was occurring. It is in a position to control the activities of its teachers and should implement policies to protect against copyright infringement. The teachers are liable for direct infringement because they are making the copies of the copyrighted works and distributing them.​

A University Has "Looked the Other Way" When Its Instructors