The current move to patent computer programs is a move in the wrong di

I also got it right in 1.26 but i wasn't convinced at all, i was more intuitive than thinking even if i'm quite good at this type of question using the technique of negation. And this is what makes finding the correct answer harsh and difficult where the stem is quite simple.

This is an assumption question, however D seems to be restating the purpose of a patent which is given in the argument itself. Then will it be an assumption? B on the other hand gives an assumption for this sentence in the argument. "Any computer program is merely the implementation of a methodology."

Any thoughts?

The current move to patent computer programs is a move in the wrong direction and should be stopped. The patent system was originally designed solely to protect small-time inventors from exploitation, not to give large corporations control over a methodology. Any computer program is merely the implementation of a methodology.

(D) Large corporations should not hold patents for implementations of methodologies.

This is a good example of what I call the "vanilla question" or to quote Homer Simpson the "D'oh!" question. The hardest assumption questions are the ones where the assumptions are so basic you don't even recognize that you are assuming it! It is the assumption that underlies everything else. Use the negation technique to identify. If that assumption is wrong then all the other answers are rendered moot.

Conclusion: The current move to patent computer programs is a move in the wrong direction and should be stopped.

Premises: 1) The patent system was originally designed to protect small investors from exploitation
2) the patent system was not designed to give corporations control over a methodology.
3) any computer program is merely the implementation of a methodology

Assumption: a basic implicit understanding : corporations shouldn't hold patents for implementations of methodologies.

Patenting Computer Programmes should be stopped since it is moving in the wrong direction.

Originally - Designed to protect small Investors.

Now - Exploited by Large Corporations over methodology.

Computer Program is merely implementation of methodology.

Which one of the following is an assumption on which the argument depends?

(A) Computer programs should be developed not only by large corporations but by small-time inventors as well.

Irrelevant.

(B) Implementing a methodology always requires less creative effort than does true invention.

Out of scope.

(C) The issue of whether or not to patent computer programs presents the patent system with problems that have never before arisen.

Out of scope and Irrelevant.

(D) Large corporations should not hold patents for implementations of methodologies.

True , if Large Companies hold Patents for Implementation of methodology then it will not foster fair competition.

(E) Small-time inventors who support the move to patent computer programs act contrary to their own best interests.

Not at all true , but are trying to protect their own best Interest...


IMO (D)

Abhishek009 ExpertsGlobal5

Can you please help me understand how to eliminate opiton A
Negation of A - Computer programs should be developed not only by large corporations but not by small-time inventors [/u]as well.

Negating weakens the conclusion and hence A seems to be an assumption

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