From Human Authorship to Machine Creativity: Rethinking Copyright Law in the AI Age

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has brought about a rapid transformation within the creative sphere, thereby unsettling the traditional foundations of intellectual property law, particularly copyright. Works generated through AI systems become increasingly prevalent. Legal frameworks across jurisdictions are confronted with persistent difficulties in defining authorship, ownership, and copyrightability. This article tries to critically evaluatee the evolving legal platform governing AI-generated content and particular reference to comparative developments in the European Union, the United States, the United Kingdom, and India.
The analysis focus upon the fundamental issue of whether an AI system can be regarded as an author? Who should be recognised as the rightful holder of rights in such works? While traditional copyright frameworks are firmly rooted in the principle of human authorship, the growing confusion created by AI systems in content generation necessitates a reconsideration of established traditional assumptions. The notion of “work made for hire” has been advanced as a possible mechanism for allocating authorship. Hhowever, disputes regarding ownership continue to arise among developers, users, and corporate entities. In addition, the scope and applicability of economic and moral rights in relation to AI-generated works remain deeply contested underscoring the urgent need for greater legal clarity.With particular emphasis on the Indian copyright framework, this study highlights the urgent need for legislative reform capable of addressing the realities of AI-driven creativity. It advances policy-oriented suggestions, including the incorporation of AI-specific provisions.The mentioning of clear standards concerning human intervention, and the establishment of structured mechanisms for attribution and rights protection also suggested. Ultimately, the article argues that a balanced legal approach is essential with the one that simultaneously promotes technological innovation and safeguards the interests of human creators. By aligning copyright principles with contemporary technological developments, legal systems can more effectively navigate the complexities posed by AI-generated creativity. It thereby ensuring both progress and equitable protection in the digital age.