Copyright and Fair Use

image from howto.gov

Copyright.  What a fun topic.  I didn't realize how complicated it was until I learned about it in my technology class.  I used to think it was just make sure that you don't download anything illegally, and make sure to cite all your sources.  But oh man, is it so much more.
Not only should you be careful to cite everything, but there are certain things that you can use for educational purposes, and certain things you have to ask for permission, or you are being illegal.   The problem I am having is figuring out which is ok to use for educational purposes, and what I have to ask for permission.  Some things are clear, for example, if I find an article that I want to use, I could pass it out to my class one time, and that is fine.  Also, it seems pretty simple to me that if I am doing something that is hindering someone from receiving money they should be receiving, then that is a big no no.  Other things do not seem so black and white to me. 
What is so important about making sure you give other people the credit they deserve, anyway?  Isn't citing them enough, do we really need permission for every single picture and video we as teachers want to post on a website? 
Well, for one thing, it is the law.  And we should respect that, and try to follow it as best we can.  These copyright laws are created in order to protect people's unique ideas and thoughts.  Also, it is respectful towards others.  In the Bible, in Philippians 2:3, it says that we should consider others better than ourselves.  We need to think of others before us.  So maybe we should change our mindset when it comes to thinking about copyright laws.  Maybe we shouldn't be thinking about how annoying it is that we have to look up all these things and ask everyone and their brother for permission to use a certain picture, but should think about how they would feel if we didn't ask.  Sometimes simply recognizing that it is another person's idea, and giving them credit is more of a way to show you noticed, and appreciated their work.