The Key to Success John Horvath 12.12.2000 Software patents as a restraining influence on the free flow of knowledge Without a doubt, there are many arguments both for and against the issue of software patents. While many of these arguments are based on a technical framework, there is a more fundamental basis for the rejection of software patents. In essence, software patents act as a restraining influence on the free flow of knowledge.
Computer software epitomizes such a paradigm.
The code contained within a program is merely a set of instructions based on what is known or can be learned from the hardware available. It is the mechanisms for information input and output through this hardware which enable users to interact with computers, and which differentiates these types of machines from others. Not only is knowledge most efficient when it's free, but the fast and full dissemination of knowledge indubitably raises its economic value. C onsequently, delimiting the use of software through the vehicle of patents invariably stifles innovation and the application of numerous combinations of different kinds of knowledge. This, when it should be neutral and indifferent to such considerations.