What is the definition of attribution in creative works?

Attribution in creative works refers to the practice of recognizing and crediting the original creator of a piece of work. This concept is pivotal in the creative community, as it acknowledges the effort and talent of the individuals who produce art, writing, music, and other forms of expression. Giving proper credit is essential not only for ethical reasons but also for legal compliance in many instances. When someone attributes a work, they may include the creator's name, the title of the work, and sometimes additional information, such as the year it was created or the context of the work.

This practice is a fundamental aspect of copyright and intellectual property laws that encourage respect for creators' rights. While claiming ownership, obtaining permission, and registering a work with the copyright office are related concepts in the realm of intellectual property, they do not specifically define the act of attribution. Attribution focuses solely on acknowledging who created the work, making it an essential part of maintaining integrity within creative fields.