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Dutch Parliament Reverses Software Patent Vote
Sanity writes "On May 18th, by a thin majority, the European Council of Ministers voted in favor of throwing out the European Parliament's efforts to keep software patents out of Europe. According to an FFII press release, the Dutch Parliament yesterday voted to change its Minister's vote, which was in favor, to an abstension. This is an unprecidented move and a great coup for those fighting against software patents, never before has a country reversed a vote in this manner. While this is not sufficient to reverse the decision of the Council of Ministers, it does pave the way for other countries, many of which were pressured into an affirmative vote, to do the same. Now is the time for citizens of the EU to put pressure on their national governments to follow the Dutch lead."
Shut up: You lost from Portugal, 2-1.
Hopefully more countries will follow the Dutch lead, and loosen the grasp of proprietary software in Europe, leading to more competition in the market, and ultimately Microsoft's downfall *evil grin*
And hopefully someone will mod this redundant
Okay, how is the loss of a software patent a Good Thing(tm) in a free-market economy? I'd really like someone to explain this to me, because it sounds supsiciously like a big load of fresh steaming compost. Honestly now. Explain how it is beneficial for your creation to not be protected against theft by competitors? How does it encourage the market to grow and expand, when businesses suddenly decide to pursue more protected interests?
Do you honestly think the computer software market grew because of John Q. Coder in his living room? No! Sure, John Q. may have produced a higher quality software, but his marketing and distribution were limited strictly to his personal resources. The only reason there is a multi-billion dollar market in the software industry right now is because of the very giants you are ranting against. Don't like Microsoft? Tough. There's a very good chance that they are the reason that either you, or someone close to you even has their job right now.
Look, if someone's political views go the line of Communism, that's all well and good. You can go live in China, where you will be told what software you are allowed to use, and when, and god help you if you make the mistake of complaining about governmental policy there. But if you're going to live in the capitalist world, you have to grow up and accept the fact that sometimes a company you personally don't like still has a right to exist, and has just as much right to protect its interests as the underdog.
-The Libra
"Please be patient--The future will begin momentarily."
What, are they all on drugs? What are they smoking over there, and can I get some?
Best. Comment. Ever. Enjoy!