Is it legal to copy a paragraph from a book and write it as a Facebook note?

[Nick]

Hi, I have a very interesting (and somewhat fierce) book that I'm really into, and I wanted to share one of my favorite paragraphs from the book with my friends on Facebook. I would NOT credit myself, but rather credit it to the actual authors and title of the book. Thanks to all who can help!!!

[Michael J]

You're probably clear under fair use.

Even if you're not, nobody is going to care.

[shannn]

it should be fine as long as you cite it.

[1235]

I don't really think it's a big deal. If you are really worried, just put it into quotation marks and write the name of the book afterward.

[Jenelle]

No u won't get in trouble if u credit the author for the paragraph.

[Justina]

It's interesting to think about, but practically implausible, that the publishing company would bring an infringement case against you. If, hypothetically they did, the court would look at:

What you used the copyright work for (specifically if it was for commercial purposes)
How much of it you copied (one paragraph in an entire book)
The negative effect on the sales of that book based on your use of that paragraph (may actually increase sales!)

You're fine -- especially because you used it "for purposes of illustration or comment."