Internet and Computer Law : Cases-Comments-Questions

This book is the successor to the same authors' casebook, Computer Law. Because of the emergence of the Internet and the many changes in computer law, the new book consists primarily of cases decided since the publication of its predecessor. Internet and Computer Law covers the key issues in this dynamic field: By severely cutting older cases on the now moot issue of the copyrightability of software, the Copyright chapter is able to keep key cases such as Altai and to include all the current cutting edge cases, such as Napster and MP3. By covering older cases in notes, the Patent chapter is able to include the latest Federal Circuit decisions on the patentability of software, computer-implemented business methods, and Internet techniques. Extensive new trademark materials include coverage of the new Anticybersquatting Act and the operation of ICANN domain name arbitration. The new jurisdiction chapter deals with the legal and Constitutional issues related to Internet jurisdiction The E-Commerce chapter covers the latest legislation on electronic contracting and also the emerging role of the Federal Trade Commission in protecting consumers on the Internet. Chapters on Privacy and First Amendment reflect the ongoing litigation over attempts to censor the Internet. The Antitrust chapter provides legal and economic background for the Microsoft case, but does not waste space on the District Court decision, since it seems destined to be replaced by an appellate opinion. The chapters of the book are fully independent, allowing law teachers to design a course suiting their preferences and tailored to the number of available classroom hours. About half the book is devoted to intellectual property and could be used in a short course on Internet and Computer Intellectual Property. To avoid duplication with other courses, one or more chapters could be omitted, for instance the chapter on the First Amendment.