The thing is that IP is not an in principle right, it is something devised entirely to maximise economic efficiency (ie providing enough incentive for firms to invest in innovation). However, if the economics underlying that assumption has changed then the whole idea should be reexamined. I think with respect to internet software innovation and cultural products the internet has proven that people will invest and innovate and produce and share freely and do not require economic incentive to do so.
All these bills allow is for companies to protect what would otherwise be common property.
[ http://www.theage.com.au/technology/technology-news/ill-wind-blowing-for-software-pirate-20120117-1q4ti.html ]
ReplyDeleteThe thing is that IP is not an in principle right, it is something devised entirely to maximise economic efficiency (ie providing enough incentive for firms to invest in innovation). However, if the economics underlying that assumption has changed then the whole idea should be reexamined. I think with respect to internet software innovation and cultural products the internet has proven that people will invest and innovate and produce and share freely and do not require economic incentive to do so.
All these bills allow is for companies to protect what would otherwise be common property.