Gimme a breakI'm probably violating some ridiculous patent just for writing this, but here goes. Netflix has a patent on their business methodology and now they're suing Blockbuster Online for patent infringement. Are you kidding me? How is it even possible to patent such a thing? I could see having a patent if they'd developed some new web interface or special software to deal with the large databases of customers' movie queues or some new DVD technology. But a business methodology? Isn't that like patenting the idea of a roadside lemonade stand? Does someone own the patent on the concept of having a large building full of merchandise in which customers come to you, pick out the items they want and pay as they exit the building?

This is just one example of how patent law has gotten way out of hand. For more on this topic, check our this essay by Michael Crichton.

Posted by Hey Paul   |   Tuesday, April 04, 2006