>>16
I mentioned an analysis of the benefits of software patents (right now) AS COMPARED TO the cost of getting rid of software patents (with, say, lobbying). That would be quite different than an analysis of the cost and benefits of software patents on their own (what do we gain from our patents, what do we lose from our legal costs + the patents of other). Since getting rid of software patents isn't on the horizon for now, there's not a need for an analysis (and I wouldn't take one seriously if I knew of one).
Here's my very own analysis for you:
(little software patents benefits - little software patents costs) / HUGE LOBBYING COSTS WITH NO GUARANTEE OF SUCCESS = not worth it