Re: [Patents] Gregnews: US report proves EP lies

[Christian Beauprez <beauprez@beauprez.fsnet.co.uk>]

> And a good way to promote the disclosure of new, useful applications of
> a science is with patents.  To fight such patents in Europe is to fight
> the progress of a new science in Europe.  The European authorities might
> want to wonder why anyone would do so.
>  
Well then we have to put on our econo-physician hats. Overall the patent 
system is considered to have a negative cost/benefit ratio. To me that 
suggests an inefficient system - in physical or economic terms.

"Since the benefits of the patent system are so tenuous and subtle and 
the overall benefit/cost ratio is considered to be negative, there is no 
economic justification for extending patent monopolies by lengthening 
the term, or by widening the grounds for either infringement, or 
patentability (for example, plant variety rights or computer programs)."

Mandeville's Economic Effects of the Australian Patent System


Patent  laws are a type of derived demand, like transport. Not many 
people get a train just to go on a journey, but to get somewhere. Of 
course it doesn't stop those who have a direct interest in the transport 
sector wanting to take people for a ride they don't need.