What does copyright protect?

Copyright is a legal mechanism designed to protect original works of authorship, which includes artistic and literary creations. This coverage spans a wide variety of expressions such as books, music, paintings, software, and films, among others. By securing copyright, the creator retains exclusive rights to reproduce, distribute, and publicly display their work. This protection not only encourages creativity and innovation by providing a financial incentive for creators but also ensures that their contributions can be safeguarded against unauthorized use or reproduction.

In contrast, the other options refer to different types of protections. A government's rights to trade would fall under international trade laws and agreements, while a company's proprietary information is usually protected through trade secrets or confidentiality agreements. Lastly, product designs might be safeguarded by design patents or trademarks rather than copyright. Therefore, all these elements highlight the specific nature of copyright as it pertains solely to original artistic or literary works.