Several rather distinguished scholars have said that patents as a concept -- not just software patents -- are misguided. They provided evidence for this claim and the evidence was somewhat measurable. It is becoming increasingly accepted by many that the USPTO is a tool for helping large corporations hoard power and wealth at the expense of everyone else. "Innovation" is just a marketing technique, as in practice the USPTO does just about nothing to innovate, it just provides protectionism for those that can afford it (usually the wealthiest companies out there).

“Patent law is now just so far removed from common sense that it’s patently absurd; the whole system right down to its roots needs to be overhauled.”
      --Eugene KasperskyEugene Kaspersky [1, 2], possibly the most distinguished security researcher in the world (judging by reputation), cites Techrights in his new post which says patents work against innovation. To quote him on these issues: "Today’s patent law regarding software is…well, it’s a bit like one of those circus mirrors where reality is distorted. Patent law is now just so far removed from common sense that it’s patently absurd; the whole system right down to its roots needs to be overhauled. ASAP! Otherwise innovative patents meant to encourage and protect will simply fail to materialize. (Good job, patent system. Stellar work.)"

He complains more specifically about software patents. He is far from the only security professional who thinks that computer security is compromised by a bunch of monopolies on strategies and methods which correspond to simple mathematics. ⬆

"I would much rather spend my time and money and energy finding ways to make the Internet safer and better than bickering over patents."

--Dean Drako, Barracuda's CEO