IER Lawrence Klein Lecture: The Case Against Intellectual Monopoly

Posted: 27 Jul 2008

See all articles by Michele Boldrin

Michele Boldrin

University of Minnesota - Twin Cities - Department of Economics; Charles III University of Madrid - Department of Economics; Centre for Economic Policy Research (CEPR)

David K. Levine

European University Institute - Robert Schuman Centre for Advanced Studies (RSCAS); Washington University in St. Louis - Department of Economics

Date Written: August 12, 2004

Abstract

In the modern theory of growth, monopoly plays a crucial role both as a cause and an effect of innovation. Innovative firms, it is argued, would have insufficient incentive to innovate should the prospect of monopoly power not be present. This theme of monopoly runs throughout the theory of growth, international trade, and industrial organization. We argue that monopoly is neither needed for, nor a necessary consequence of, innovation. In particular, intellectual property is not necessary for, and may hurt more than help, innovation and growth. We argue that, as a practical matter, it is more likely to hurt.

Keywords: Innovation, Capital Accumulation, Growth, Trade, Intellectual Property

JEL Classification: D92, F11, L11, L43, O31, O34, O47

Suggested Citation

Boldrin, Michele and Levine, David K. and Levine, David K., IER Lawrence Klein Lecture: The Case Against Intellectual Monopoly (August 12, 2004). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1177502

Michele Boldrin (Contact Author)

University of Minnesota - Twin Cities - Department of Economics ( email )

271 19th Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55455
United States
612-624-4551 (Phone)
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Charles III University of Madrid - Department of Economics

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Getafe, 28903
Spain

Centre for Economic Policy Research (CEPR)

London
United Kingdom

David K. Levine

Washington University in St. Louis - Department of Economics ( email )

One Brookings Drive
St. Louis, MO 63130
United States

HOME PAGE: http://www.dklevine.com

European University Institute - Robert Schuman Centre for Advanced Studies (RSCAS) ( email )

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50016 San Domenico di Fiesole
Florence, Florence 50014
Italy

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