In a rapidly changing world, the underlying philosophies, the rationale and the appropriateness of patent law have come under question. In this insightful collection, the authors undertake a careful examination of existing patent systems and their prospects for the future. Scholars and practitioners from Japan, the US, Europe, India, Brazil and China give detailed analyses of current and likely future problems with their respective systems, and outline possible responses to them.With detailed and extensive contributions, this book will greatly appeal to students, practitioners, policymakers and academics who are interested in the problems of current patent system in the world and their future. Contents: T.G. Agitha, G. Carmichael, S. Elahi, Y. Futoshi, N.S. Gopalakrishanan, K. Karachalios, J.P. Kesan, M.A. Lemley, C. McGinley, K. Motohashi, N. Nakayama, C. Neppel, Y. Omori, Z. Ping, B. Rutz, R. Shimanami, V. Yumy Mitsuuchi-Kunisawa