Computer Ethics for Educators

 
Effect

Rationale:  Effect on the market is perhaps even more complicated than the other three factors.  Some courts have called it the most important factor, although such rhetoric is often difficult to validate.  This factor fundamentally means that if you make a use for which a purchase of an original theoretically should have occurred, regardless of your personal willingness or ability to pay for such purchase, then this factor may weigh against fair use.  "Effect" is closely linked to "purpose."  If your purpose is research or scholarship, market effect may be difficult to prove.  If your purpose is commercial, then effect is presumed.  Occasional quotations or photocopies may have no adverse market effects, but reproductions of software and videotapes can make direct inroads on the potential markets for those works.
 

Copyright & Fair Use