Atabey Akgok talks about his dissertation on the copyright ownership of AI – Generated Work.
Atabey Akgok (Intellectual Property LLM, 2023) was recently awarded a Distinction for his highly topical and thought-provoking dissertation titled “The Sweat of the Chip: Justifying Copyright Ownership of AI-Generated Works”.
Atabey invites you to engage in thought-provoking conversation about this dynamic field: “This dissertation delves into the complex realm of copyright protection concerning AI-generated works, exploring pivotal aspects of originality, authorship, and subject matter fixation. Investigating varied justifications, it scrutinises utilitarian and economic approaches alongside Hegelian and Lockean claims.
The study meticulously examines international perspectives, analysing the UK, EU, US, and the Berne Convention's stances on AI-generated works. It scrutinises non-human authorship, encompassing instances involving animals like Naruto, AI creations such as "The Next Rembrandt," and developments like Craiyon AI.
A critical focus lies on ownership and authorship attributions, delineating the roles of developers, end users, and the concept of AI itself as an author. Notably, the UK's distinct position in the global context emerges as a significant facet, fostering a detailed analysis of its contrasting approach in the era of globalisation.
The dissertation navigates through the pros and cons, addressing the financial aspects, market effects, ethical considerations related to AI's lack of morality, and potential infringements during and after the creative process.
Finally, it concludes by exploring strategies to reconcile contradictions and proposes solutions to the multifaceted challenges posed by AI-generated works in the realm of copyright ownership.
Advice for Successful Dissertation Writing:
Embarking on your dissertation journey means immersing yourself in a world of resources available through your school email. Platforms like HeinOnline, Westlaw, Thomson Reuters, and Google Scholar offer a diverse array of scholarly articles, legal documents, and perspectives. Dive into their advanced search functions to explore your research topics deeply.
Consider enrolling in dissertation writing classes if available—they act as invaluable guides, refining your writing style and structuring arguments. During meetings with your supervisor, take diligent notes as their insights navigate your research's direction.
Clarity and structure are paramount. Establish a clear research plan early, setting objectives, timelines, and milestones. Regular communication with your advisor is essential for guidance and feedback. Ensure your dissertation maintains a logical flow and concise structure with well-defined sections, enhancing readability.
View the writing process as an evolution. Begin with an outline, refine drafts iteratively, and edit meticulously. Consistency and organisation are fundamental in crafting a polished, coherent dissertation that effectively conveys your ideas.
Furthermore, integrate your dissertation into your daily life. Stay updated on news related to your topic; immerse yourself in it. Blend your passion into your research—it could be an interest you already possess or a topic that fascinates you. This connection infuses vigour into your work, driving a deeper understanding and commitment.
Remember, these resources are tools—mastering their use amplifies the quality of your research. Google Scholar, with its vast database, complements your research arsenal. Pairing these resources with insights from classes and your supervisor provides a holistic approach.
Embrace this journey with patience and persistence. Each step presents an opportunity for growth. Aligning your passion with rigorous research, expert guidance, and dedicated effort will undoubtedly culminate in a dissertation that makes a significant contribution to your academic field”.
To connect, please see Atabey's LinkedIn Profile.