Texas A&M Professor Explores Blockchain's Potential Impact on Copyright Administration

Blockchain's Immunity to Tampering Could Revolutionize Copyright Handling

A recent research paper by Dr. Peter Yu, a professor at Texas A&M University School of Law, delves into the potential use cases of blockchain technology in the realm of copyright administration. According to Dr. Yu, blockchain has the power to completely transform the way intellectual property is managed, both domestically and internationally.

The Power of Immutability

Dr. Yu, who serves as the Director of the Center for Law and Intellectual Property, highlights blockchain's immutability as a key factor in its suitability for integration with the intellectual property system. Once a transaction is recorded on a blockchain, it becomes virtually impossible to alter that record. In the event of an incorrect recording, a new transaction can be inserted into the blockchain to provide a correction. This immutability feature makes blockchain technology highly attractive for copyright registration, ownership and licensing records, and other related tasks.

Greater Transparency and Traceability

One of the major benefits identified in Dr. Yu's research is the ability of the blockchain ledger to offer traceability. This means that the entire lifecycle of a copyright registration can be traced back to its inception. By making this information available to the public through a blockchain explorer or similar tool, a new level of transparency is achieved compared to traditional server-based record systems.

Disintermediation: Independence from Governing Bodies

Another advantage highlighted in Dr. Yu's paper is disintermediation, which refers to blockchain's ability to operate independently without the need for a governing body. Unlike traditional systems that rely on trusted intermediaries such as governments, banks, or clearinghouses, blockchain technology enables global cooperation even in the absence of government or intergovernmental support.

A Potential Shift to Artist-Led Copyright Systems

Dr. Yu speculates that these benefits could pave the way for a copyright system led by artists and businesses, where intellectual property is registered and mediated independently of the state. This would mark a significant departure from the current centralized approach to copyright administration.