Re: Where would we be without these important patents?

I in no way wish to disparage the brilliant work of Isaac Newton, but it
is not clear that the publication of Principia in English in 1729
dramatically accelerated technological development.

Take a look at the "Dateline for Thermodynamics" at
http://www.physics.northwestern.edu/Phyx103/web/thermo-dateline.html .
It is clear that thermodynamics, mechanics, and hydraulics were being
developed before and after Newton's time. A timeline of optics,
astronomy and celestial mechanics would be similar - important work was
done before and after.

My point is this - most technological development is the result of
gradual, incremental improvements. In hindsight most breakthroughs, were
"obvious," all the ingredients were there, the invention was ripe for
picking. This is why the patent system works so well. It encourages the
inventor to develop and publish of the little (and big) steps. The
little steps aggregate to technological advance. The patent system
encourages open competition, and discourages secrecy, to the benefit of
society.

Richard
.