“Common Knowledge” is a general term that refers to information that is widely known and accepted by the public. Common knowledge does not have any legal implications on its own, but it may be relevant in certain legal contexts where the knowledge or awareness of certain facts is required or disputed.
Common knowledge refers to information that is widely known and accepted by the general public, without the need for citation or verification. It includes facts, events, and concepts that are commonly taught in schools or widely discussed in society.
No, common knowledge cannot be copyrighted. Copyright protection only applies to original works of authorship that meet certain criteria, such as being fixed in a tangible medium of expression and displaying a minimal level of creativity.
Yes, you can use common knowledge in your writing without citing it. Since it is widely known and accepted, there is no need to provide a citation. However, if you are unsure whether something is common knowledge or not, it is always better to err on the side of caution and provide a citation.
Yes, common knowledge can be used as evidence in a legal case. However, it is important to note that the weight and credibility of common knowledge as evidence may vary depending on the specific circumstances and the judge’s discretion.
No, common knowledge cannot be patented. Patents are granted for new and non-obvious inventions or processes, not for information that is already widely known and accepted.
No, common knowledge cannot be used as a defence in a plagiarism case. Plagiarism involves the unauthorized use or appropriation of someone else’s work, regardless of whether it is common knowledge or not. Proper citation and attribution are necessary to avoid plagiarism.
No, common knowledge cannot be protected as a trade secret. Trade secrets are confidential and valuable business information that provides a competitive advantage. Common knowledge, by definition, is information that is widely known and accessible to the public.
No, even though common knowledge does not require citation in most cases, it is still good academic practice to provide proper citations for all sources used in research, including common knowledge. This helps to maintain academic integrity and give credit to the original sources.
Yes, common knowledge can be used as a basis for a legal argument, especially in cases where it is relevant and widely accepted. However, it is important to support the argument with additional legal authorities and evidence to strengthen its validity.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 5th April 2024.
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