The contract theory of patents

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• 作者：Denicol&ograve ; Vincenzo ; Franzoni ; Luigi Alberto
• 关键词：Reward theory ; Contract theory ; Patent system
• 刊名：International Review of Law and Economics
• 出版年：2003
• 出版时间：December, 2003
• 年：2003
• 卷：23
• 期：4
• 页码：365-380
• 全文大小：128 K

文摘

Two distinct theories of patents, the “reward theory” and the “contract theory,” are customarily adopted by the courts to justify the patent system. The reward theory maintains that the function of the patent system is to remunerate successful innovators so as to encourage R&D effort. In contrast, the contract theory holds that the function of the patent system is to promote the diffusion of innovative knowledge. Assuming that in the absence of patent protection innovators would rely on trade secrecy, it views patents as a contract between innovators and society whereby a property right is granted in exchange for disclosure.