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What is the big deal about software patents? Why no rage over hardware patents?

I heard RMS speak about patents a few years ago, and if I remember correctly (which I probably am not) it was simply that software patents were more important because more people have the means to write software than they have to build hardware. Thus, innovation is impacted more on software.

I believe he also claimed that "hardware patents" and "software patents" are in many ways the same, since one patent can cover both hardware and software. Instead there's a distinction of a software patent being, "a patent which restricts software development."

but then mr. myhrvold couldn't horde a bunch of patents and collect protection money that is then reinvested in the hording operation, and then he wouldn't be able to bake the world's biggest chocolate chip cookie that he was so eagerly planning.

End Software Patents