The Evolution of Intellectual Property Rights in the Digital Age

Purpose: The main objective of this study was to investigate the evolution of intellectual property rights in the digital age. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings revealed that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to the evolution of intellectual property rights in the digital age. Preliminary empirical review revealed that that the digital age has significantly impacted IPR across various dimensions. It has not only necessitated the adaptation of legal frameworks but has also introduced novel challenges and opportunities. The prevalence of digital piracy, the need for copyright enforcement mechanisms, the reevaluation of traditional notions of copyright ownership, and the complexities surrounding open access publishing are among the key issues that have emerged as central concerns in the digital age. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Diffusion of Innovations theory, Institutional theory and the Social Contract theory may be used to anchor future studies on the evolution of intellectual property rights. Some of the recommendations drawn from the study include the following: modernizing intellectual property legislation, strengthening cross-border enforcement, promoting digital literacy and copyright education, encouraging voluntary compliance and industry collaboration and adapting alternative intellectual property models.