Cosplay In The Classroom: Introduction to Business Law

In our recent Introduction to Business Law class, Prof. Townley and the students embarked on an exciting journey through the world of Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) and their significance for businesses, with a special focus on the world of cosplay. As the class dove into the complexities of copyright law, students aimed to understand its role in shaping the future of this thriving community of cosplay enthusiasts.

Case Study: Cosplay Copyright

The Japanese government is considering how to regulate cosplay within the framework of copyright law, and contemplating amendments to the Copyright Act to manage potential conflicts between cosplayers and intellectual property owners. Cosplay, a trend where fans dress up as characters from popular culture, has captured hearts worldwide. As its popularity soars, there's a growing need to address legal issues, particularly concerning anime and manga characters.

Exploring the Inner Workings of Cosplay Copyright

The classroom transformed into a lively spectacle as students donned a variety of costumes, from beloved characters like Luigi, to sharks, pandas, maids,  and even a beer can. Each costume brought a touch of fun and creativity to our learning environment.

Through this playful experience, students embodied their favorite characters, gaining a deeper understanding of the legal complexities surrounding cosplay.