Problem
A. Why do you think the Founding Fathers decided to empower Congress to protect intellectual property, but only for a limited time?
B. How likely do you think it is that Congress may extend the term for copyright protection again in the future? Why?
C. Do you think that life forms should be the subjects of patents? Does your answer change depending on whether we are talking about bacteria, plants, animals, or humans? What are the most persuasive arguments in favor of, and against, allowing the patentability of higher life forms?
D. How do patent rights encourage innovation?
E. If patents are protected monopolies, why do you think patent applications are a matter of public record?
F. Do you agree with compulsory licensing of lifesaving medications in response to national health emergencies? What are the consequences of compulsory licensing to the patentee? To the people in need of these medications in wealthy countries? To the people in need of these medications in poor countries?