Intellectual Property Inequality

Abstract

This paper looks at how intellectual property laws affect small businesses, especially when they’re up against much larger companies. While IP laws are meant to protect ideas, inventions, and branding, they’re sometimes used by big corporations to push smaller competitors out of the market. By analyzing real cases like Apple v. Prepear, Monster Energy v. Thunder Beast, and Kellogg v. MyPillow, this paper shows how IP law can both protect small businesses and also be used against them. It also discusses ways small companies can fight back, like using legal clinics, public support, and smarter policies. In the end, the paper argues that IP laws need to work better for small businesses, not just the powerful.