The Challenges of Reforming Intellectual Property Protection for Computer Software

Menell, Peter

Abstract

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The Challenges of Reforming Intellectual Property Protection for Computer Software

Peter S. Menell

University of California, Berkeley - School of Law

January 15, 1994

Columbia Law Review, Vol. 94, p. 2644, 1994

Abstract:
This article examines three critical, interrelated challenges for reforming legal protection for computer software: (1) analyzing the market failures that might justify government intervention to define (or alter) the legal entitlements granted for software innovations; (2) predicting the likely path of computer technology; and (3) anticipating and navigating potential impediments to legislative reform of legal protection for software. It warns that patent protection for computer software poses serious potential problems and should be addressed before powerful economic interests vest in large software patent portfolios.

Number of Pages in PDF File: 11

Keywords: computer software, intellectual property, copyright, patent, political economy

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Date posted: October 16, 2011

Suggested Citation

Menell, Peter S., The Challenges of Reforming Intellectual Property Protection for Computer Software (January 15, 1994). Columbia Law Review, Vol. 94, p. 2644, 1994. Available at SSRN: http://ssrn.com/abstract=1944599

Contact Information

Peter S. Menell (Contact Author)

University of California, Berkeley - School of Law ( email )

Boalt Hall
Berkeley, CA 94720-7200
United States