The above heading is taken from an article that was referenced in the Scientific American who took it from here http://cleantechnica.com/2013/03/29/do-intellectual-property-rights-on-existing-technologies-stifle-innovation/
It argues that certain types of IP have actually stifled innovation for the benefit of all. It cites the human genome where of the genes patented the associated human ailments have suffered from less research.
Lets face it there can be a lot at stake. another article I read recently was that IP was the corporate way to vast riches. The Oil of the 21st century is IP. It brought to mind a couple of cases I have personal involvement. One current where the IP holder makes unsubstantiated rumours that a new innovation may infringe their patent. In the USA this can be enough to scare off buyers who know the cost of litigation there. Of course this method is also less costly.
Just as patents are there to protect inventors the patent should not be a barrier to innovation and unsubstantiated claims should not be allowed to damage innovators.
The other case I was involved in at the end of the 20th century involved a large aggressive IP holder who ,it transpires, may have made fraudulent claims in court to inflict heavier damages on their adversary. As I said there can be a lot at stake and doubtful, unscrupulous methods can be used to achieve a result.
I was brought up to observe fair play but found the world has never liked a level playing field.