The monopoly song: 'I'll see you in hell first' zdnet.com
This is off topic, the column is about Intel not Microsoft, but I figured you'd appreciate it James. Also on John D. Rockefeller, apropos your pointer to the message from good old Carlos Blanco. I assume James knows who Carlos works for, for newcomers let's just say he's not a disinterested party.
Even though off topic, I can't resist a quote which seems relevant enough:
Once companies become dominant in their markets, they often slip into a state of denial, adopting a righteousness that would humble John D. Rockefeller Sr. They moan about how little power they have and that competitors will soon destroy them. It's self-preservation, I guess. "We have done nothing wrong." "I'm amazed and shocked the government is doing this." These quotes are as canned as Del Monte pineapple.
Let's not forget the Chrysler car radio, and "We must be free to imitate, I mean innovate".
According to Ron Chernow's acclaimed new book, "Titan: The Life of John D. Rockefeller Sr.," the same arrogance was present at Standard Oil. Instead of giving canned quotes, though, Standard Oil executives were eloquent. When asked to compromise, one said, "I'll see you in hell first." I can appreciate the humanness of that response.
I'm sure Bill feels the same way, but his expression of those sentiments is somewhat indirect and off the mark. "War is peace, ignorance is strength, Windows is open". He said that last one again, just recently. Come on Bill, tell us what you really feel, like good old J. D.
Cheers, Dan. |
