In: Economics
1.what is contract definition and specify enforcement by means other than government
2. discuss Rent-seeking; in patent vs. copyright give examples
A ‘contract’ is an acknowledged
proposal (agreement) which is totally understood by the law &
is lawfully defined / enforceable by the law. Thus a ‘contract’ is
a licit document which imparts the parties special privileges
(outlined by the contract itself) & also responsibilities which
are introduced, outlined & agreed upon by both the sides of the
contract.
ans 1=Whilst 2 parties strike a
bargain, there must be certain mechanism to safeguard that every
party will adhere to the terms. The chief enforcement systems are
self-enforcement (for example- posting bonds and ending a
commercial relation), reputation (for example- risking an imminent
commercial relation), organisational ( 3rd party
auditing), technology (for example- to monitor sales) &
contract law. To be effectual, the expenses of enforcement mustn’t
outweigh the gains obtained from enhanced contractual
commitment.
Exclusive reliance on formal systems of contractual enforcement (
litigation thru the judiciary system) can be expensive & slow.
Alternative dispute resolution mechanisms seek to resolve
differences amongst parties in a timely & unbiased way. The
chief examples are mediation, arbitration & conciliation
hearings, usually by industrial bodies, specialised agencies or
3rd party assessors, done at the national /
international level. Alternative dispute settlement procedures
usually supplement judicial contract enforcement processes &
can fortify contractual commitment at lesser expenses .