By
L. Winslow
The Federal Trade Commission is still closely watching Microsoft for giving its software users a free Internet Browser and yet it did nothing when AOL attempted to give away free Internet service. Of course, we know that is below cost, "dumping" and cannot possibly be allowed, whereas, the free Microsoft Brower was already paid for in R and D and costs them nothing to give it to you along with whatever Operating System you purchased.
All this hypocrisy brings us to the next point of contention. Is it just me or does it appear that Google is quickly becoming the biggest Monopoly of all time? How so you ask? Well, lets consider the buying of the 700 MHz spectrum for the new Google Phone, giving away free software, and basically owning the GPS Mobile Commuting Market in the near future, not to mention its unbelievable "Click Ad" domination and search engine market.
It seems that the FTC went after Microsoft calling them predators in marketing and distribution, yet from what I see, Google is doing the same thing. So, either they must Microsoft off the hook and shield them from states using extortion regulatory practices or go after Google for their predatory and domination strategies in the market share arena.
In the 2007 edition of the Economist there is a full feature story on just this issue and it seems to be serious enough to catch the attention of the EU and European Regulators. Even the Chinese are leary, although in China, it is more about controlling the minds of the masses and censorship.
Fair is fair and although no one truly believes that the government regulatory bodies are fair, at least they can pretend by exercising their unlimited power under the law on an even playing field. If not it seems that the government is doing exactly what Adam Smith warned us about. Sincerely, Lance.
L. Winslow is an Economic Advisor to the Online Think Tank, a Futurist and retired entrepreneur http://www.worldthinktank.net . Currently he is planning a bicycle ride across the US to raise money for charity and is sponsored by http://www.Calling-Plans.com and all the proceeds will go to various charities who sign up.
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