I know the video in question was footage that was in the public domain, but this topic applies to anybody using Youtube, as I’d be willing to bet a few on this forum have at some point seen their uploads and channels removed.
The average individual loading videos on Youtube basically has an guillotine dangling above their heads. All leverage is given to copyright holders, and in most cases the uploader has zero recourse if their channel is terminated.
In Kafkaesque fashion any users’ years of video uploads and all channel information can simply be extirpated without any warning beforehand. You are essentially guilty until proven innocent according to Youtube’s arbitrary standards of what constitutes infringement (see: big, popular channels and sponsors posting plenty of videos that have committed far ‘worse’ infringements remaining alive).
Now, as I understand it, Youtube is essentially allowed to remove any video for any reason and not have to give the uploader any notice. Is that their right? Are the contractual obligations on valid grounds? I’d say it is, but it bothers me how inconsistent they are at applying this rule and the ironic favoritism given to profitable channels.
Interested in some thoughts regarding Youtube/Google’s policy. I am increasingly critical of IP laws, as they seem to merely result in a system dedicated to pure privilege and lobbying rather than defense of any actual property.