Antitrust and Intellectual Property Law: From Adversaries to Partners

Sheila F Anthony, Commissioner, Federal Trade Commission

1/01/2005
(Original Publish Date: 2000)

Intellectual property and antitrust are especially relevant as we approach the new century because it is more important than ever to encourage innovation and competition, both of which enhance consumer welfare. Innovations are among the most valuable assets of American businesses, and in today's global economy, companies must innovate if they hope to survive and thrive. This is true in industries as diverse as computer hardware and software, biotechnology, aerospace, and pharmaceuticals. Companies generate wealth and employment by generating new ideas and developing them into improved products. Consumers, in turn, benefit enormously from these innovations.