[Edu-sig] linux essay

[Laura Creighton]

Kirby writes:

>I think the patent system is out of control and it's way too easy for
>corporations to file for exclusive rights on things (not just ideas, but
>natural phenomena, processes, everything).  The trend towards privatization
>has gone too far.

You may be pleased to know that the Federal Trade Commision agrees with
you.  It made a report this October 2003 entitled 'To Promote Innovation:
The Proper Balance of Competition and Patent Law and Policy'.

Report:  http://www.ftc.gov/os/2003/10/innovationrpt.pdf
Summary: http://www.ftc.gov/os/2003/10/innovationrptsummary.pdf

Laura