"Much of the communication on the Internet happens between computers according to standards that define common languages. If we are going to live in a free world using free software, our software must be allowed to speak these languages.Unfortunately, discussions about possible new standards are tempting opportunities for people who would prefer to profit by extending proprietary control over our communities. If someone holds a software patent on a technique that a programmer has to use in order to implement a standard, then no one is free to implement that standard without getting permission from and paying the patent holder. If we are not careful, standards can become major barriers to computer users having and exercising their freedom..."