The Impact of Computing on Ip Rights
The impact of Computing on Intellectual Property Rights
Barry Rhoden
Vector Technology Institute
Abstract
The digital age has revolutionized the way things are done; some changes are subtle whilst some include a whole paradigm shift. One area that has regressed with the arrival of contemporary computing is intellectual property rights. Today’s information systems are taxing and challenging existing laws and social practices that protect private intellectual property. Unlike the industrial age where patents for machinery was the order of the day, today’s information age is awash with innovation, not so much on mechanical capital, but knowledge based innovation which gives that competitive edge to corporations. As far back as 1997 Lester Thurow, writing for the Harvard Business Review stated “today it is both more important than ever before to protect intellectual property rights – and more difficult to do so.” That statement still holds true today. The aim here is to take a closer look at this “intellectual property” and how it is being challenged by advancements in computing.
Intellectual Property Rights – Why?
Intellectual Property has to do with the authentic works of innovators and creators. Those original works and ideas need protection. “Intellectual property (IP) rights exist to protect the works of creators and innovators from misappropriation or copying by unauthorized parties. Such protection is in the interests not only of the individual creators, but of wider economic development and consumer interests. Counterfeiting and piracy hamper the growth of national economies, depriving legitimate enterprises of turnover, and the state of revenues. The phenomenon deters investment and innovation, and often violates employment, health and safety legislation. On a transnational scale, counterfeiting often involves and sustains organized crime.” Recent Challenges for Enforcement of Intellectual Property Rights. (2006, April) Wipomagazine. Information
Barry Rhoden
Vector Technology Institute
Abstract
The digital age has revolutionized the way things are done; some changes are subtle whilst some include a whole paradigm shift. One area that has regressed with the arrival of contemporary computing is intellectual property rights. Today’s information systems are taxing and challenging existing laws and social practices that protect private intellectual property. Unlike the industrial age where patents for machinery was the order of the day, today’s information age is awash with innovation, not so much on mechanical capital, but knowledge based innovation which gives that competitive edge to corporations. As far back as 1997 Lester Thurow, writing for the Harvard Business Review stated “today it is both more important than ever before to protect intellectual property rights – and more difficult to do so.” That statement still holds true today. The aim here is to take a closer look at this “intellectual property” and how it is being challenged by advancements in computing.
Intellectual Property Rights – Why?
Intellectual Property has to do with the authentic works of innovators and creators. Those original works and ideas need protection. “Intellectual property (IP) rights exist to protect the works of creators and innovators from misappropriation or copying by unauthorized parties. Such protection is in the interests not only of the individual creators, but of wider economic development and consumer interests. Counterfeiting and piracy hamper the growth of national economies, depriving legitimate enterprises of turnover, and the state of revenues. The phenomenon deters investment and innovation, and often violates employment, health and safety legislation. On a transnational scale, counterfeiting often involves and sustains organized crime.” Recent Challenges for Enforcement of Intellectual Property Rights. (2006, April) Wipomagazine. Information