I think it's a fine idea, but qualifying for protection and the exclusivity terms are maybe out of touch with reality. Software patents in particular shouldn't

I think it's a fine idea, but qualifying for protection and the exclusivity terms are maybe out of touch with reality. Software patents in particular shouldn't get 20 years. That made sense in general in the 19th century; it's an eternity today for software. Similarly, the extra exclusivity opportunities drugmakers have (mashups, etc) may be too friendly now.