This entry was published at least two years ago (originally posted on May 3, 2001). Since that time the information may have become outdated or my beliefs may have changed (in general, assume a more open and liberal current viewpoint). A fuller disclaimer is available.
Imagine the disincentive to software development if after months of work another company could come along and copy your work and market it under its own name…without legal restraints to such copying, companies like Apple could not afford to advance the state of the art.
— Bill Gates, 1983 (New York Times, 25 Sep 1983, pg. F2)