While i do agree that patents protect the intellectual property of the creator, you cannot deny that they slow down progress. Looking at some of these patents, they are absolute rubbish. Look at swipe to unlock patent, seriously can these patents get any more lame? Also when a user jumps from one technology to another, they have to get used to whole new interface cause it would infringe if they had similarities. I have no issue with protecting intellectual property, but in a world where technology changes every few months, 20 year patents are stupid.

Besides, I see a massive community which provides ideas and code for everyone for free, and its given us a massive push forward, why isn't anyone attacking others for using their code?