This book investigates the expansion of university patenting and licensing activities in the United States since the early 1980s and challenges the conventional wisdom attributing this trend solely to the Bayh-Dole Act of 1980. David C. Mowery, a recognized authority in the field, examines the diverse channels of commercialization throughout the 20th century and post-Act, employing quantitative analysis and detailed case studies. The book argues that while the Bayh-Dole Act played a role, universities must balance increased commercialization with their historic commitment to the free flow of knowledge to sustain scientific achievement and serve the public interest.

The book critically examines the widely held belief that the Bayh-Dole Act of 1980 was the primary driver of increased university patenting and licensing in the late 20th century. It employs rigorous quantitative analysis and specific case studies to present a more nuanced perspective on the history of university commercialization. The work suggests that universities must carefully balance their role in knowledge dissemination with their increasing engagement in patenting and licensing to ensure continued scientific progress and public benefit.