Digital Propertization of the New Artifacts: The Application of Technologies for "Soft" Representations of the Physical and Metaphysical

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to illustrate the high order of complexity within the nature and extent of rights associated with a reproduction of an artifact. In particular, the problem is exacerbated when that reproduction is digital and is of extremely high quality, especially when such reproduction may be considered in some respects to be of greater value than the original work. In order to understand the various facets of claims involved in the representation of an artifact, it is necessary to look at some illustrations of the technology and other aspects that may be involved. The focus here is on the means and results of reproduction of "a thing" or an artifact that is best described as an experience. Here we are looking at the application of technology to artifacts, especially those that are expressions of human activity in the realm of culture. The problems are epitomized within the realm of traditional knowledge, and the subject discussion is placed in this category, although it can be generalized to other artifacts.