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The History Of Intellectual Property And Its Influence On Our Modern World

By Stephen Daniels

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Published: 20Feb2012
Word count: 542
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Whether the discussion is about music, software, films, or even clothing, the term "intellectual property" continues to be in the news quite a bit these days. Intellectual property, or IP, refers to a few different types of "creations of the mind" for which the inventors or owners have certain rights. The laws that govern intellectual property grant what are called "exclusive rights" to artistic works, inventions, and often symbols and phrases (such as a company's branding slogans and logos). Some of the terms we hear a lot in reference to IP include: "patents," "trademarks," and "copyrights," as these, as well as increasingly, domain name law, are the most common types of IP.

Intellectual property lawyers are proud to note that their chosen discipline dates back to medieval times. Back then there were associations that included the artisans of specific industries. Usually called "guilds," their governments gave them the authority to regulate the conduct of their practitioners. They oversaw production, marketing and import/export practices, as well as how and when new inventions were brought to market. Because IP law back then was controlled by both the religious and political powers, there was not much interest in innovation. In one oft-cited example, when the Stationers' Company established their monopoly in 1556, it was known to exist simply to limit the power of the Protestant Reformation. In other words, by letting one company to be in charge of the entire printing industry, those in power could control how ideas were spread. Luckily, that has changed, and supporting innovation is now the main reason IP law exists.

IP law started early in the history of the United States as well. In fact, each of the original thirteen colonies had their own set of laws. This of course led to chaos and degradation of rights due to the inability to enforce patents in neighboring states. One of the first things the founding fathers did to rectify this was to put IP law in the realm of the federal government.

Throughout the years that have followed, IP law has been a huge part of business and commerce, protecting the rights of inventors, as well as established companies and their formulas, and making sure that there is always a healthy amount of innovation infusing the marketplace.

In the age of the Internet, intellectual property lawyers are doing their best to protect the rights of owners and inventers from illegal digital dissemination. All just a part of IP's fascinating history.

Author Stephen Daniels highly recommends Baker & Rannells for those seeking professional intellectual property lawyers in New York. Their legal team has more than 63 years experience in both the U.S. and around the world. Their team will work on your behalf and can assist with research, registration and infringement litigation when appropriate.

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