Discussion Questions: World of Publishing
- In professional literature, what is the role of the publisher, author and editor? Explain how each is different for popular literature.
- Compare Open Access Publishing, Creative Commons and traditional publishing. What are the benefits and drawbacks of each? Which would you use, as an author?
- “Fair use” limits use of copyrighted material to certain circumstances. Explain the factors and why each is important. Do you agree these are fair limits?
- Many universities require faculty to research and publish books/articles in their field. How has this type of publishing impacted academic/research/scholarly pursuits? How have researchers responded to publisher’s control and drive for profit?
- Much of the popular literature is intended for the general public to understand issues of common interest. Describe how the publishing process for popular literature is different from professional literature. What types of materials are published in each?
