Working Paper: NBER ID: w25383
Authors: Bhaven N. Sampat
Abstract: This report surveys the empirical literature from economics and related fields on patents and innovation. In particular, it reviews and synthesizes the empirical evidence on patents and first-generation innovation, the disclosure function of patents, and patents and follow-on innovation. The main results are summarized in fifteen charts.
Keywords: patents; innovation; empirical evidence
JEL Codes: O34
Edges that are evidenced by causal inference methods are in orange, and the rest are in light blue.
| Cause | Effect |
|---|---|
| patents (O34) | cumulative innovation (O36) |
| patents (O34) | decline in citations (A14) |
| patents (O34) | decline in follow-on research activity (O38) |
| patents (O34) | first-generation innovation (O35) |
| patents (O34) | follow-on innovation (O36) |
| strengthened patent laws (O34) | R&D intensity (O32) |
| strengthened patent laws (O34) | patenting activity (O34) |