Scientific theory, marketing methods, software... What can be protected?

Exceptions in terms of "non-inventions" include scientific theories, marketing methods, aesthetic creations and computer programs, which are not considered "inventions" as such.

This concept may be the subject of debate or of divergent positions depending on the country and the office: this is particularly true of computer creations, which may or may not be considered patentable inventions, depending on the case.

However, inventions involving these "non-inventions" can still be protected, provided that the reasons for and scope of these exclusions are known, and that certain rules of presentation are respected.