Working Paper: NBER ID: w12148
Authors: Stephen M. Maurer; Suzanne Scotchmer
Abstract: Open source methods for creating software rely on developers who voluntarily reveal code in the expectation that other developers will reciprocate. Open source incentives are distinct from earlier uses of intellectual property, leading to different types of inefficiencies and different biases in R&D investment. Open source style of software development remedies a defect of intellectual property protection, namely, that it does not generally require or encourage disclosure of source code. We review a considerable body of survey evidence and theory that seeks to explain why developers participate in open source collaborations instead of keeping their code proprietary, and evaluates the extent to which open source may improve welfare compared to proprietary development.
Keywords: No keywords provided
JEL Codes: K; L
Edges that are evidenced by causal inference methods are in orange, and the rest are in light blue.
| Cause | Effect |
|---|---|
| Open Source Incentives (L17) | Investment in Software (C88) |
| Intrinsic Motivations (O31) | Open Source Participation (L17) |
| Licenses (D45) | Open Source Participation (L17) |
| Open Source Development (L17) | Efficiency in R&D (O32) |
| Social Psychology Motives (D91) | Open Source Participation (L17) |