User:The Transhumanist/Intellectual property

Intellectual property (IP) is a legal term that refers to creations of the mind, such as music, literature, and other artistic works; discoveries and inventions; and words, phrases, symbols, and designs. The owners of intellectual property have been granted rights by law, or they may obtain protection under the law through registration and the payment of a fee (see Intellectual property rights).

Etymology
Many of the legal principles governing IP have evolved over centuries, but it was not until the 19th century that the term "intellectual property" began to be used, and not until the late 20th century that it became commonplace in the majority of the world.