I don't know if Linux/Open Source/Free Software disproves the theory, or actually proves it. The argument would be: Microsoft and Apple feel that existing IP p

I don't know if Linux/Open Source/Free Software disproves the theory, or actually proves it. The argument would be: Microsoft and Apple feel that existing IP protections on software would not sufficiently prevent competitors or consumers from 'stealing' the results of their work. So, they don't release the source code. Because they don't release the source code, there's a duplication of effort between Microsoft, Apple, and any other kernel-writers. If there existed extremely strong IP protection laws for software, that required release of source (like a patent, basically), then Apple and Microsoft might release source, duplicate less effort, and their disadvantage to Linux would be reduced. Open Source is what happens when you have a system that encourages these secrets to be shared. The only difference is, Linux manages to get R&D effort without the benefit of a monopoly-grant, or indeed, without any direct profit motivation.