Intellectual Property Law and Society
Dates: 8 - 26 July, 2013
Intellectual Property is both commercially significant as well as politically controversial. This course will introduce and build on the general principles of the legal protection of intellectual property rights. It is an aim of the course to develop critical insight into the recent expansion in unconventional subject matter such as the copyright protection of digital content in the online environment, the patenting of biological subject matter and business methods, and the protection of unconventional and exotic trademarks such as smells and shapes. The focus on law and society in lectures and practical problem-solving approach in tutorials will allow ample opportunity to debate current legal and political controversies.
The course is primarily based on substantive UK law, while a number of European and international legal provisions will be referred to, given the global nature of the subject. The course is divided into four modules as follows:
Introduction to Intellectual Property
The nature of intellectual property, economic analysis and philosophical justifications for its protection, eligible subject matter, the international and institutional context of intellectual property rights.
Copyright
The categories of subject matter, idea – expression dichotomy, originality, authorship, duration of protection, infringement, defences and moral rights. Copyright in the digital environment.
The Protection of Inventions
The criteria of patentability, patents and biotechnology, business methods and computer implemented inventions, infringement and exploitation. International topics in patent protection such as access to pharmaceuticals and patents, trade and development.
Trade Marks
Underlying principles of trademark registration, unconventional signs and special categories, lawful and unlawful uses of trademarks, dilution. Trade marks on the internet and implications for freedom of expression.
Texts
Core Text
MacQueen, Waelde & Laurie, Contemporary Intellectual Property, (2nd Edition) (Oxford University Press, Oxford 2010).
Reference TextsL. Bently and B. Sherman, Intellectual Property Law, (3rd Edition) (Oxford University Press, Oxford 2008).
W.R. Cornish et al, Intellectual Property: Patents, Copyright and Allied Rights, (7th Edition) (Sweet and Maxwell, London 2010).
Lectures: 36 hours Classes: 12 hours
Assessment: One two hour examination. (There will also be one formative written exercise that will not count towards the final grade.)
Contenido del curso: 12 horas de clase semanales por las mañanas y conferencias y seminarios por las tardes en función del curso elegido.
Precio total: 3.980 €
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