What is Intellectual Property?

I read an excellent article today that speaks to the practical meaning of Intellectual Property. The article, written by attorney Michael Mann, is located here. Mann explains that he used to refer to himself as a practitioner of patent, trademark, copyright and trade secret law. But he aptly points out that these words do not define IP, but refer instead to areas of law that are applied to IP. He explains that IP, in fact, is something else: it is know-how, message, innovation and reputation. Mann's thoughts provide an intriguing way of thinking about what IP lawyers really do. Importantly, his thoughts provide an excellent way of explaining this to clients.