Meaning: Lawrence Lessig, a prominent legal scholar and advocate for open access and innovation, made this statement to highlight the potential negative impact of copyright laws on creativity and access to information. In this quote, Lessig is pointing out the challenges that copyright laws can pose for institutions such as libraries that seek to create educational exhibits or disseminate information online.

The reference to the New Deal in the quote is significant because it represents a historical period in the United States characterized by government programs and reforms aimed at addressing the economic challenges of the Great Depression. An Internet exhibit about the New Deal could be a valuable educational resource, providing access to historical documents, images, and sound recordings related to this important era in American history.

However, as Lessig suggests, the process of obtaining the necessary permissions and licenses to use copyrighted materials in such an exhibit can be onerous and complex. This can create a barrier to the creation and dissemination of educational and cultural content, ultimately hindering the public's access to important historical and artistic resources.

Lessig's criticism of the copyright system in this context is rooted in his broader concerns about the balance between protecting intellectual property rights and fostering creativity and innovation. He has been a vocal proponent of reforming copyright laws to address the challenges posed by digital technologies and the internet, advocating for a more flexible and balanced approach that takes into account the public interest and the need for access to information and cultural works.

The mention of "formalities" in the quote alludes to the historical shift in copyright law away from a system that required formal registration and adherence to specific formalities in order to secure copyright protection. In the United States, for example, the Copyright Act of 1976 eliminated the requirement for formalities such as copyright notice and registration, moving towards a system where copyright protection is automatic upon the creation of a qualifying work.

While this shift was intended to simplify and streamline the process of securing copyright protection, it has also contributed to the proliferation of copyrighted material and made it more challenging for individuals and institutions to navigate the complexities of copyright law. The ease with which copyright protection is now obtained, coupled with the expansive scope of exclusive rights granted to copyright holders, can indeed pose significant burdens for those seeking to use copyrighted works in ways that are consistent with the public interest.

In response to these challenges, Lessig and others have proposed various reforms to copyright law, including the promotion of open access, the expansion of fair use and other user rights, and the development of alternative licensing schemes such as Creative Commons. These efforts are aimed at rebalancing the copyright system to better serve the interests of both creators and the public, enabling greater access to and use of cultural and educational materials while still respecting the rights of copyright holders.

In conclusion, Lawrence Lessig's quote underscores the potential negative impact of the current copyright system on creativity, education, and access to information. By highlighting the challenges faced by institutions seeking to create online exhibits and educational resources, Lessig calls attention to the need for thoughtful and balanced reforms that can better serve the interests of both creators and the public. His advocacy for a more flexible and open approach to copyright reflects a broader concern for fostering innovation and ensuring widespread access to the cultural and historical heritage that copyright is intended to protect.