I'm making these remarks spurred by a brief article about Prism, an astroturf org apparently devoted to restricting knowledge by "respecting copyright".
At least in the US, copyright isn't a natural, god(s)-given right that must be guarded by the state. Rather, it is a tool, to keep scientists and inventors at the task of invention, by rewarding them, personally (not their heirs ad infinitum), for their efforts. Copyright is a *tool*, a means. Not an end.
To promote the progress of Science and useful Arts, by securing for limited Times to Authors and Inventors the exclusive Right to their respective Writings and Discoveries.