Exclusions from Patentability How Far Has the European Patent Office Eroded Boundaries

Exclusions from Patentability reviews the history of the adoption of exclusions from patentability under the European Patent Convention since its first conception in 1949 through to its most recent revision. The analysis shows how other intellectual property treaties, such as UPOV, the Strasbourg Patent Convention, PCT, the EU Biotech Directive and TRIPS have affected the framing of the exclusions. Particular attention is given to those exclusions considered the most contentious (computer programmes, discoveries, medical treatments, life forms and agriculture) and those decisions which have been most influential in shaping the approaches by which the exclusions have been interpreted. The 'morality' exclusion and the interpretation of the exclusions are discussed critically and suggestions for coherent interpretation are made.

• Focus on what is not patentable in Europe will appeal to those concerned with the practice of obtaining patent coverage

• Investigation of what should not be patentable will appeal to those concerned with the theoretical aspects of patent law

• Explanation of how the patentability exclusions can be interpreted will be of interest to those concerned with interpreting or changing the law