A turning point in the computer revolution. Probably not what you think it is.

A few years back, Microsoft and Gates mainly fought for dominance in the open marketplace. The entire company donated next to nothing to politicians, and didn't play the political game as such. Then Gates was hauled before the Star Chamber, and threatened with destruction. Microsoft learned how the game was played with the big boys, and that someone who can destroy a thing, controls that thing.

Now, the government has apparently been finally recognized by Microsoft as a potential tool to suppress competition, and now huge political contributions flow out of Washington state to Washington D.C. Both parties. A lesson was learned, and I think we may all end up worse off for it.

Have you ever noticed how many regulations seem to specifically designed to protect existing industries from competition? All the way down to cosmetic licensing requirements.