The problem with this article is it derives the innovation derived growth from patent statistics (14% of rising inequality). Then it simply assumes the rest is

The problem with this article is it derives the innovation derived growth from patent statistics (14% of rising inequality). Then it simply assumes the rest is due to rent seeking. This is pretty laughable when it comes to software. I'd argue that all software patents are a rent seeking behaviour using regulation to thwart competition. rent-seeking is bad. but more regulations exasperate this problem by creating higher barriers to entry for disruptive startups. Rent-seeking isn't a symptom of capitalism, it's a symptom of the way lobbyists exploit our legislative and regulatory institutions. I think it's feasible for there to be regulations that discourage anti-competitive practices and reduce barriers to entry but it's nigh impossible to get it passed with the lobbyists in the way.