CHATHAM HOUSE
May 1st, 2002
BY MARK ROWEDISPUTES over who owns an idea and the right to stop others from stealing it probably date back to the cavemen who invented the wheel. It was most likely resolved by the application of a large club to the head. In the 21st century patent issues are settled more peacefully - for now. As intellectual property has became more important in trade, so these differences have become a source of tension in international economic relations.The World Trade Organisation agreement on the Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (Trips), is an attempt ...
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