Rethinking creative commons licensing: A policy proposal to safeguard against copyright trolling and enhance knowledge sharing

This paper addresses the pressing need to reform Creative Commons (CC) licensing in response to the challenges posed by copyright trolling. The paper highlights how these factors undermine the integrity of knowledge-sharing ecosystems by examining the economic motivations behind copyright trolling and the ambiguities in existing CC licenses. It proposes a dual approach that combines policy advocacy with theoretical development, recommending clear licensing language, anti-trolling provisions, and the establishment of an oversight body to protect users while maintaining creator incentives. Through case studies and analysis, the paper illustrates the potential benefits of these reforms, advocating for a more equitable and inclusive framework that fosters creativity, collaboration, and access to knowledge. Ultimately, the aim is to recalibrate the balance of power within the licensing landscape, ensuring that both creators and users can engage freely and securely in sharing creative works.