Are Life-Saving Drugs a Commodity or a Public Good? Ethical Questions in Patent Law

Abstract: The debate surrounding whether life-saving drugs should be treated as commodities or public goods represents a critical ethical, economic, and legal challenge. This study delves into the complexities of patent laws governing life-saving drugs and their implications for accessibility, affordability, and innovation. It explores the ethical tensions between pharmaceutical companies' rights to profit from their innovations and the societal need for equitable healthcare. Drawing on global examples, the study examines current patent frameworks, public health policies, and international agreements like TRIPS (Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights). It highlights the challenges of balancing corporate interests with public welfare and suggests pathways for reconciling these competing priorities