Barton Beebe, Intellectual Property and the Sumptuary Code, 123 Harv. L. Rev 810 (2010).

Laura A. Heymann

In his most recent article, Barton Beebe provides a typically sophisticated and rich analysis of the ways in which intellectual property law is used to reinforce exclusivity, much as sumptuary laws have done throughout history.  Such laws, by regulating the fashions of the citizenry, enacted a dialogue about distinction and group identity, in which those permitted to wear certain costuming could communicate to others […]