14 May 2009
How can you patent a human gene?

How, indeed? We'd better figure out how to stop this madness before it eats our civilization.

Here's a little-known fact: Under current law, it's possible to hold a patent on a piece of human DNA, otherwise known as a gene.

(link) [CNN.com]

21:12 /Copywrongs | 0 comments | permanent link

NY Bill Proposes Fat Tax On Games, DVDs, Junk Food

Here's an idea: how about a Stupid Tax? A 100% tax on stupidity. I guarantee you that the first to be hit would be politicians...

GamePolitics is writing about a proposal to tax on things that make your kids fat. The logic from its author: "Almost all experts agree that the primary reasons [for the obesity epidemic] are increased consumption of larger quantities of high calorie foods, snacks and sugar sweetened beverages... and lack of physical activity as vigorous play is replaced by sedentary activities such as watching more television, movies and videos and playing video games. This bill would raise revenues from modest surcharges on the very food products and sedentary activities that are linked to the lifestyle changes involved in the explosion of childhood obesity in the last 20-30 years." Not as explicit as Japan's fat tax but we're getting there.

(link) [Slashdot]

21:06 /Politics | 0 comments | permanent link