The Ludwig von Mises Institute posted a look at our own Boldrin/Levine project Against Intellectual Monopoly on their blog back on New Year’s Eve. I missed it until now, but it’s worth a read.
In this first chapter excerpt, Boldrin and Levine view copyright and innovation through the lens of James Watt, steam engine inventor and darling of the British patent system.
A few fun facts from the chapter:
- Watt’s patent ran from 1769-1800 (due to extra legal influence)
- During Watt’s patent, the UK added 750 horsepower of steam engines per year. In the following 30 years: 4,000 horsepower per year.
- Many innovations to the steam engine were developed before 1800, but idled until the patent expired.
- Watt couldn’t do much to improve his own design, since the most significant improvements were patented by others.
- Watt and his partner Boulton didn’t even make many steam engines during their patent, they just charged fees of those who did.
you guys obviously do NOT know how to run a good website. you need less advertisements and more facts, especially about james watt, in case a specific thirteen-year-old needs them for a report.
sincerely,
F.F.Figueiras