a method , system and device for transferring usage rights associated with digital works , including generating , by a first party , first usage rights and hierarchical rights for a digital work , the first usage rights defining a use for the digital works , the first hierarchical rights specifying rights to derive usage rights or other hierarchical rights ; presenting the first usage rights and hierarchical rights to a second party ; receiving a selection from the second party indicating desired rights of the first usage rights and hierarchical rights ; and granting the desired rights of the first usage rights and hierarchical rights to the second party .