Able Quote by Vandana Shiva
“I have called this phenomenon of stealing common knowledge and indigenous science "biopiracy" and "intellectual piracy." According to patent systems we shouldn't be able to patent what exists as "prior art." But the United States patent system is somewhat perverted. First of all, it does not treat the prior art of other societies as "prior art." Therefore anyone from the United States can travel to another country, find out about the use of a medicinal plant, or find a seed that farmers use, come back here, claim it as an invention or an innovation.”
About This Quote
Patent systems often ignore prior knowledge from other cultures, allowing exploitation of indigenous resources as new inventions.
In simple terms: Patents can misuse indigenous knowledge.
Key Takeaway
Advocate for equitable intellectual property rights.
Themes
biopiracy
intellectual property
indigenous rights
Mood
serious
determined
Type
activist
policy
When to use this quote
- policy reform
- community empowerment
- research ethics
- fair trade
Key Concepts
law
ethics
economics
Questions to Reflect On
- How can traditional knowledge be protected?
- What mechanisms ensure fair benefit sharing?
A Different Perspective
Legal reforms face strong corporate resistance.
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