While I agree with this in principle, it should be mentioned that a great deal of software, perhaps even the majority of software written depending on who you a

While I agree with this in principle, it should be mentioned that a great deal of software, perhaps even the majority of software written depending on who you ask, is used internally and is never sold directly. In fact, there are accounting rules in the US that deal directly with internal use software that classifies it as a long-term tangible asset[0] (software is normally classified as an intangible asset). So along with "selling it infinitely", you can also think of it in terms of using it "infinitely" even though it's considered a tangible asset. It's kind of weird when you think about it, like a piece of equipment that in theory never wears out. Obviously in real life that's not entirely true due to changing business rules and so forth. [0]: http://files.fasab.gov/pdffiles/handbook_sffas_10.pdf http://files.fasab.gov/pdffiles/handbook_sffas_10.pdf