Choose one of the following two options.

1) Markets, Regulation and Tort Law

There is a debate about whether market forces, government regulation or tort liability best ensure consumer safety in society today. With reference to at least two course readings from this semester, and with the use of at least two additional scholarly sources, write a paper discussing the relative strengths and weaknesses of these mechanisms for ensuring consumer safety in relation to a particular type of industry or good. Be sure to provide examples, and to address the issues of efficiency, innovation, deterrence and justice as you formulate your argument.

2) Patents and Intellectual Property

Some scholars argue that patents serve an important social function insofar as they protect intellectual property and encourage innovation. Others argue that patents serve to protect the rich and powerful at the expense of accessibility and the average consumer. With reference to at least two course readings from this semester, and with the use of at least two additional scholarly sources, write a paper discussing the strengths and weaknesses of patent law in contemporary society.

Be sure to provide examples to substantiate. your claims, and to address the issues of innovation, intellectual property rights and accessibility.