The patentability of software and business methods in Europe

The debate on the patentability of computerprograms and business methods is rooted inthe general objectives of the patent system.The patent system is traditionally groundedin an assumption that a time-limitedmonopoly over the exploitation of a certaininnovative process or device rewardsinventors for their creative effort andencourages innovation and thus technicalprogress. This general assumption is thefoundation of each national andtransnational patent system.