Note as of 2014: I respected the writer, but I don’t see this topic in the same way I did when it was originally posted. Microsoft was not independent of government. Established collectivist international corporations are not separate from government. Who’s “private” property was invested in Microsoft–and by what institutions? How much of it was tax-funded subsidies and government contracts (shielded by secrecy and “national security”)? Which organizations are the real shareholders, and do they have a “private property” agenda? No way. What are their values? Are they supportive of independent businesses? No way. Who gives Microsoft directions? Well, who gives the most directions to anyone? Laws and regulations. Government. If one particular court or judge or law seems to have an independent decision from that juggernaut, then so what? It could even just be for show. It’s not an equal playing field. It’s not free competition. It’s not free enterprise. What resulted from the Microsoft Empire? Another powerful “private” foundation (Gates) that directs government policies all over the planet.

Joseph Sobran, May 13 ’98: 1998 Opinion on “Antitrust” Action Against Microsoft

…The institution that gave us the atomic bomb is offering to protect us from a company that gives us personal computers.

…I’ve never understood why concentrations of private property are more dangerous than concentrations of coercive power.

(Original Post)