To: Daniel Schuh who wrote (19656 ) 5/22/1998 1:24:00 PM From: Daniel Schuh Read Replies (2) | Respond to
At war with Microsoft economist.com The preliminary injunction requested by the Justice Department neatly sidesteps these objections. It would like the court to make non-Microsoft browsers more available to consumers. It also wants computer makers to be able to determine the design of the first screen shown on a new computer, presumably in response to what customers say they want. Both measures would loosen Microsoft's grip, while leaving it free to innovate. If the court sees fit, both rulings could be in force within weeks. Neither calls for intrusive regulation. As the investigation proceeds, the Justice Department, egged on by Microsoft's enemies, could seek harsher remedies, designating Windows an "essential facility" and obliging it to carry competitors' products; controlling Windows' pricing; or even breaking Microsoft into "Baby Bills". On present evidence, that would be unwarranted: the law is designed to protect consumers, not Microsoft's competitors. But monopolists have a responsibility to act with restraint. If Microsoft refuses to change its ways, the next antitrust action may need to contain something more drastic.
