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Intellectual Property - LW801
| Location | Term | Level | Credits (ECTS) | Convenor | 2013-14 | 2014-15 | 2015-16 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canterbury | Autumn |
Masters
Undergraduate or postgraduate masters level module
|
20 (10) | White Mr W A |
|
|
|
The information below applies to the 2013-14 session
Synopsis
In this module we start by looking at the phenomenon called “intellectual property”, its basic characteristics and why, in recent decades, it is growing in both economic and political importance, domestically and globally. We then examine the basic doctrine of copyright law, the requirements for copyright protection, infringement, and some of the leading copyright controversies, such as the term/duration of copyright and online music (eg, the post-Napster saga). Patents, the other leading type of intellectual property, is the third major topic; here we look in-depth at the requirements for patentability, exclusions from patentability, patent licensing, and contemporary patent issues (eg, biopiracy, parenting drugs (such as anti-HIV retrovirals), patenting software.). Throughout the module, both “black letter” and critical perspectives are explored.
Details
Contact hours
2-3 hours per week combined lecture/seminars.
Availability
Autumn Term
Method of assessment
80% coursework consisting of a 4-5,000 word essay plus 20% participation element.
Preliminary reading
- L Bentley & B Sherman, Intellectual Property Law (Oxford, latest edition) J Davis, Intellectual Property Law (Butterworths, latest edition) Blackstone’s Statutes on Intellectual Property (latest edition)
Learning outcomes
- To enable students to engage in informed scholarly debate over the principles and practices involved in intellectual property law. To enhance students' appreciation of the economic and international relations context within which intellectual property rights are contested.
Pre-requisites
None.