Quote:
Originally Posted by Fluribus
The US trademark website says that trademarks are "...used to identify and distinguish the goods/services of one seller or provider from those of others, and to indicate the source of the goods/services."
The trademark is supposed to prevent confusion in the marketplace. Exclusive trademarks allow the consumer to know what company provided the product. If you want to buy a Coca-Cola, you don't end up with Koca-Kola. If there is a problem with the product, you know who to blame.
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Trademarks also protect the reputation of the company. Even if there's no likelyhood of confusion as to who actually made the product, it's frowned on to try to cash on on somebody else's good name.
A very complicated (and expensive) body of law, and since trademarks have to be defended, not generally one you want to take chances on (especially if the trademark holder has lawyers on staff).