Debate Over Microsoft

Re “See, Consumers Come First (Yeah, Right),” Commentary, June 13: Robert Scheer and others seem to be missing the point when they bring up the public’s favorable opinion of Bill Gates and all the “innovation” that Microsoft is responsible for. There are only two important facts:

1) The company is a monopoly. If you don’t think so, try this: Delete Windows from your PC, install some other operating system on it and continue doing everything as you did before. In most cases, this is impossible. In other cases, it is possible (using Linux and others), but it is still not practical.

2) The company used monopoly power illegally. Bundling Internet Explorer with Windows and punishing OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) for installing Netscape is a clear use of monopoly power to extend the monopoly.

Everything else (including public opinion) is irrelevant.

ANGUS CAMERON

Lancaster

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Scheer had it right regarding the Clinton Justice Department’s witch hunt of Microsoft. As a computer-using (and voting) member of the public I was not harmed when Windows 98 came free with my computer. Nor did I suffer when I downloaded Internet Explorer 5 last night without charge. Office did cost me $75 and was well worth it. I am able to compose, edit and send this e-mail only because of Microsoft products and standards. The threat to public welfare comes from the Justice Department, not Bill Gates.

PAUL S. DWAN

Pacific Palisades

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Personally, I can’t wait until Microsoft goes before the Supreme Court and tells the justices they are just too stupid to understand that a Web browser must be part of the operating system.

JOHN HACKL

Arcadia