Patents might seem to reduce competition, but actually they encourage new ideas. Patent law enforces the common-sense rule that ideas are property, potentially more valuable than real estate. When a product or service becomes so popular that the monopoly begins taking advantage of their position, there will always be another ambitious entrepreneur in a lab or basement, nurturing his or her own dream. That's the theory. Haplessly, the reality is more complicated.
Big money opens even bigger doors.
Those who find themselves on top of the game will frequently bend or break the rules to stay on top. Character from MS Bob. WordPerfect was too pricey for my budget. First Choice was easy to use, but devoid of fancy formatting options. Geoworks was sweet, but under-supported.