Can ideas be copyrighted or protected - even if the idea is pretty general?

Question

I've recently book a ton of "how to make money" ebooks, and noticed several of them contain the exact same "secret" ideas. Is this because a general idea or concept (like how to make money, for example) cannot be copyrighted or protected?

For example, if I wanted to take the ideas from all the ebooks I bought and make my OWN ebook with the ideas (while putting the ideas in my own words, of course), is that allowed?

Answer 1

yes

Answer 2

A copyright is for an expression of an idea, not the idea itself. The idea has to be put into writing (or photo or art, etc.). Each book, even if it states the same basic idea, is a distinct expression of the idea and each book can be copyrighted. Once something is published other people have the right to offer their own version of it, as long as they don't copy it exactly or very close. These are called derivative works, and in some cases the copyright holder can get compensation for derivative works, but your example is not like that.

Answer 3

Yes.
For an idea to be considered "intellectual property" it must have some unique characteristics.

Answer 4

Try the site below for reference. Hope it answers your question.