Putting up one's idea's on forums

Ideas cannot be copyright protected. If it's a GREAT idea we always say keep it to yourself until you write the script, otherwise spill your guts, we'll tell you if it sucks.
 
Others post scripts online, I wouldn't. If you have any qualms about it you've already answered that question. I was told early not to send anything around Hollywood that was great until you have a name. Here's the rub, if you can write a great script or do something really well (like handle dialogue) you will get work. Now your script idea may get co-opted but you have shown you can write. Someone who is in a position to get you paid will no matter how great they think your script is usually fight harder for their average idea than you brilliant script. They will pull out every favor to see their idea gets developed (the good news is that you will get hired to develop it)(part of that equation is if you can get along with all the parties involved along with doing the work).
 
I think it completely depends on what ideas you're making public.
I for one could give up a decent amount about mine, as on the large scale, many are sci-fi genre norms. I'd only have an issue on the details, but even then i think i'm covered. My script is based heavily on tech and what situations might come about from certain parties having or not having it. You can't vary much from my specific story without making the plot and tech nonsensical.
So either they can infringe on my copyright or have a big pile of nothing.
Though my situation is probably not the norm.
 
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