World IP Day

Today has been designated by the World Intellectual Property Organization as IP Day, the anniversary of the day WIPO came into force.  This celebration is provides an opportunity to appreciate how intellectual property is inextricably embedded into so many aspects of our lives.  More and more, the various forms of intellectual property, and the laws governing them, are entering into the public eye and media.

It is undeniable that the public at large is getting more involved in IP issues.  The somewhat noticeable spike in Google searches for SOPA in January of this year is not likely due to an increased interest in fried pastries.  Blogs, articles, and involvement in IP matters have been on the increase.  What’s more, there has been a noticeable uptick in IP-related cases being granted certiorari by SCOTUS.

Given this preamble, one must ask what the best way to celebrate this ever increasingly important holiday?  I have a few suggestions.

There are innumerable top ten lists about weird and strange IP registrations.  A recent favorite of mine is Context-Free Patent Art which, well, should just be experienced.  Or, you can always just take a gander at the most recently issued patents and trademarks (in the U.S., at least).  Or engage in a lively discussion with this guy.  No matter what, know that merely by engaging in your own edification and contributing to the ongoing discussion, you elevate IP practice and direct its progress towards a more perfect system.