This case concerns the interaction of two well-established propositions. The first is
that facts are not copyrightable; the other, that compilations of facts generally are.
Each of these propositions possesses an impeccable pedigree ....
There is an undeniable tension between these two propositions. Many
compilations consist of nothing but raw data--i.e., wholly factual information not
accompanied by any original written expression. On what basis may one claim a
copyright in such a work? Common sense tells us that 100 uncopyrightable facts do
not magically change their status when gathered together in one place. Yet copyright
law seems to contemplate that compilations that consist exclusively of facts are
potentially within its scope