Mapping the Intellectual Property/Social Justice Frontier

This chapter explores the interplay of intellectual property and social justice. Part I constructs a philosophical framework for thinking about the many cross-currents between intellectual property and social justice. Part II distinguishes between the internal, largely utilitarian analysis of particular modes of intellectual property protection and the external interplay of intellectual property systems and broader social justice concerns. Part III examines the macro interplay of intellectual property and inequality, gender and racial inclusion, and global justice challenges, highlighting complexities, tensions, and paradoxes. The chapter considers how intellectual property law and policy can be seen not just as an engine of economic progress, but also as an engine of human and cultural flourishing, dignitary values, access, inclusion, and empowerment.