That's such a ridiculous consequence of our field/times.
Edit: How about the backend just returns pointers to the text (word #x till word #y) and the js just (re)assembles it?
If I understand correctly, that would still require information to be transmitted to the server, ergo copyright infringement.
Which information? The server is then not reproducing/transmitting/redistributing the content, only indices into the content. I don't see why this would be copyright infringement.
Hacker news is not a good place to get legal advice. Best to ignore anyone offering it. Talk to a lawyer for legal advice.
Sure, it's not, so do not take it as advice, especially not ultimate advice. However, I find the inevitable intellectual shutdown when discussing matters like this even more repugnant and unwarranted.
This comment is so poignant it should be part of the site guidelines.