Forced publication, eventually. Good system?

Question

A lab invents a life-saving drug. Society's deal: a 20-year monopoly to profit — but they must publish exactly how it's made, and when time's up, anyone may manufacture it as a generic.

Accepted Answer

That's the patent bargain: disclosure in exchange for monopoly. Secrecy forever or publication now aren't the only options — there's a clock. Keep the clock in your pocket. (72% of Americans answer "Good deal" — floor est.)