The principles of fair use in digital content encompass guidelines that allow limited use of copyrighted materials without obtaining permission from the copyright owner. Key factors include the purpose of use (educational or transformative), the nature of the copyrighted work, the amount of content used, and the effect on the market value of the original work. Fair use supports freedom of expression and allows for commentary, criticism, and scholarship while balancing the rights of creators. These principles are critical in determining the legality of using copyrighted material online.