抄録
The purpose of this paper is to clarify the factors which influenced the development of the technology in the Edo period. Especially, this paper tries to consider the influence on the mechanical technology development by the “Shinki-hatto”. “Shinki-hatto” law was promulgated in 1721. It has been proposed in the field of the history of engineering and intellectual property that invention is strictly prohibited by this law and the law causes Japan's stagnant technology development in the Edo period. This paper makes clear that the principal purpose of the law was to maintain the economic and institutional status quo. In addition, the paper suggests the possibility that the law fell short of expectations in terms of effectiveness.
