The most elegant way to change the patent system--one that would only require a few lines of new code but would have far-reaching consequences--would be to add independent invention as an affirmative defense to patent infringement. In other words, if someone can prove they legitimately invented something without pilfering from a boda fide patent holder, excuse them from legal liability (defendant bears the burden of proof). The economic logic is subtle: suffice it to say that it creates strong incentives for people to license their inventions at competitive (rather than monopolistic) prices. This approach best balances the need to protect new invention while avoiding the "deadweight loss" from monopolistic patents. I wrote about this at length in law school. Unfortunately it is not posted online, but you can get the citation by going to:
http://www.yale.edu/yalelj/111/111-8.html
Slashdot Mirror
For 802.1x/RADIUS auth I suggest people check out Radiuz.net -- it's free.
You can get your neighbors to sign up for a cooperative Wi-Fi network like www.radiuz.net
On the local sharing of wi-fi you should check out radiuz.net.
The most elegant way to change the patent system--one that would only require a few lines of new code but would have far-reaching consequences--would be to add independent invention as an affirmative defense to patent infringement. In other words, if someone can prove they legitimately invented something without pilfering from a boda fide patent holder, excuse them from legal liability (defendant bears the burden of proof). The economic logic is subtle: suffice it to say that it creates strong incentives for people to license their inventions at competitive (rather than monopolistic) prices. This approach best balances the need to protect new invention while avoiding the "deadweight loss" from monopolistic patents. I wrote about this at length in law school. Unfortunately it is not posted online, but you can get the citation by going to: http://www.yale.edu/yalelj/111/111-8.html