Quote from Thunderdog:
Sorry, but I think that is taking it a bit too far. The use of patents serves a very useful function when properly administered. However, as I see it, the granting of a patent on a DOM window is about as legitimate as granting a patent on a sandwich. To this layman, it is patently absurd.
I think that it is the abuse of the issues you mentioned that are cause for concern rather than the issues themselves. Operating in an environment where there is no respect for intellectual property is great if you are a pirate. It is not a very good breeding ground for innovators.
(And how, exactly, did "liberalism" get into this thread?)
Thunderdog,
Originally patents were used to encourage development of stuff that would not have been developped otherwise due to the high costs involved (eg medicines) and what was for the benefit of mankind.
These days it is being used for extortion. The exhorbitant prices being charged are out of whack in regards to the development costs. The present system does not work towards the benefit of mankind, and is not in spirit of the original purpose of patents.
What I tried to point out is that it is hurting the standing of the US in the global economy. It will be only a matter of time before the US equity markets are being taken over by China. (and that is not a matter of IF but a matter of WHEN. The Chinese think on a timeframe that the westerners do not and that is their strength.)
Maria
PS Liberalism is another matter that is weakening the US society and hence economy. There is a huge cost involved in that, due to the overheads required to cater for all the different factions.
