Patents
We talked about the problems with software patents:
1. Patents being issued for what some claim are not novel solutions
2. Companies hoarding patents for "inventions" with the intention of trading them
3. Lack of resources at patent office for issuing patents in emerging highly technical areas
We also mentioned specifically Amazon's patent on 1-click technology. In an open letter on their website Amazon's CEO Jeff Bezos responds to the debate.
"I now believe it's possible that the current rules governing business method and software patents could end up harming all of us -- including Amazon.com..."
"the patent laws should recognize that business method and software patents are fundamentally different than other kinds of patents."
"business method and software patents should have a much shorter lifespan than the current 17 years -- I would propose 3 to 5 years."
"at Internet speed, you don't need 17 years"