Intellectual Property (IP) and Academic Freedom: A Literature Review

Abstract Intellectual Property (IP) and academic freedom are two fundamental concepts in the realm of higher education. While the former is concerned with the protection of the rights of innovators, the latter aims to foster a conducive environment for knowledge and research advancement. This chapter aims to provide a literature review on IP and academic freedom in higher education and discuss the challenges and opportunities that they present. The review will include an exploration of the historical context and evolution of these concepts, copyright and IP rights, academic publishing and plagiarism in the current digital age, and the balance between academic freedom and institutional policies. This chapter will examine the understanding of academic freedom across different geo-politico-socio-cultural contexts for a more nuanced view of academic freedom.