Melbourne-based publisher Black Inc Books is seeking to partner with AI companies, seeking permission from authors to use their works for AI training purposes. This includes authorizing the publisher to exercise key rights related to copyright to help develop machine learning and AI systems.

The contracts would be optional, with Black Inc stating it would negotiate with “reputable” AI companies. However, this move has faced criticism from authors and agents who feel it undermines their work. Laura Jean McKay, a novelist, expressed concerns, stating, “I feel like we’re being asked to sign our own death warrant.”

What are publishers doing?

Publishers are emulating strategies that have been used in the music industry, where partnerships with technology firms like Spotify have become a norm. By licensing content, they hope to navigate potential copyright issues while generating revenue. However, many authors fear that the financial benefits may not trickle down to them.

Copyright law typically protects against direct copying, yet with AI, the line blurs, as these systems learn from large datasets rather than merely duplicating content. This uncertainty leaves authors vulnerable, as the potential for AI-generated content may undermine traditional publishing.

Data crunch

As AI systems evolve, they require extensive training data to perform at a high level. The early phases of AI development saw these companies aggregating content, often sparking legal disputes with publishers over copyright infringement. Current debates include ongoing litigation involving major news organizations and AI companies regarding these issues.

With no definitive judgments yet regarding copyright in the context of AI, and governmental bodies scrutinizing the matter, the foundation is still being laid for future copyright regulations surrounding AI.

What about copyright law?

While authors are being urged to cooperate with publishers in involving AI, the long-term implications of such partnerships remain unclear. There is concern that AI could replace certain author functions, potentially leading to job loss in creative sectors—a situation that would not benefit AI companies, as they would rely on human-generated content to function effectively.

In conclusion, the dynamics between authors, publishers, and AI companies require careful navigation. Ensuring literary rights and compensation while embracing technological advancements could be pivotal in shaping the future of publishing.