Intellectual property (IP) systems are designed in large part to provide adequate incentives for creators and inventors to invest in the production of novel ideas and content, while at the same time encouraging beneficial diffusion of knowledge. For example, publishing patent disclosures ensures inventors can learn from each other, and limiting patent terms to 20 years ensures they can build on each other’s innovations. As we move deeper into the data-driven economy, policymakers should take into account the need to maintain such a balance as they consider the relationship between IP rights and data.
