10. It is getting ridiculous. Apple, for instance, has a patent on “slide-to-unlock” a phone, which is distinguished from a “tap” which is a “zero-length swipe.” Apple sues Samsung because Samsung’s phone is rectangular with curved corners. That design is patented. Then Samsung sues back because the radio frequency control systems in the iPhone might infringe on Samsung patents. These are just two examples of hundreds upon hundreds of intellectual property (IP) lawsuits that cost consumers billions and slow down technological innovation.

It is time to end intellectual property rights as we know them. IPs cover many things ranging from music to literature and art to inventions, symbols, and names. They are everywhere. And whomever holds the patents on intellectual property rights can charge royalties to anyone who wants to use them even if they are so vague and abstract it is not clear, exactly, what is being covered (is it a swipe or a tap?). These rights give individuals and companies near monopolies over the production of new technologies and materials. They even give companies the right to control what pharmaceuticals can be produced and prescribed. This kind of power is dangerous.

It limits our economy and our lives. It allows markets and innovation to be controlled by a few people with a profit motives. It really is time to change the patent system. Diagram the above arguments using both the Toulmin Model and the Co-Orientational Model of argument. Then, based on what you know, criticize each argument.

What makes it strong? What makes it weak? For example:

Capital punishment for murderers is widely supported by the general population. A Harris Poll in 1975 reported 59 percent of the public was in favor of capital punishment, and that proportion reportedly was increasing. Another poll in 1978 asked the question, “Are you in favor of the death penalty for persons convicted of murder?” The results showed 66 percent of the populace in favor of the death penalty.

Criticism These polls are very outdated. Perhaps public opinion has shifted since the 1970s. Besides, just because the public supports something does not mean that it should be favored.