Patents are supposed to be a hindrance to new entrances to a makret. They're a reward for R&D, and encourage the development of technology, which reduces the marginal cost of products, and eventually, price to consumers.

I argue patents are important to developed economies (with easy access to capital) that want to continue their leadership roles. They raise a barrier to entry, but I believe they increase competition, not among production, but among idea developers... and that's what really enriches a nation.