I agree with your post for the most part, but I'd argue that computer programmers have more ability to assure their lack of competition from computer applications than lawyers. Creating software to mine data and analyze it is one thing. Creating software to create software to mine data and analyze it is another.

I don't imagine software will replace lawyers in the courtroom any time soon, if ever. But, the grunt work like document review is already being done by software instead of high-hourly-rate lawyers. I thought this was covered here, but can't find it. The NY Times covered it with the headline Armies of Expensive Lawyers, Replaced by Cheaper Software

I got the email as well, and have never used NWN. I have Battlefield Bad Company 2 as the only game listed in my account. Hope we can get some more details on this before long.

Skype definitely has great brand recognition and image. They have a huge user base. These surely appeal to MS, but I can't help wondering if what they are really interested in is keeping their competitors from acquiring these things. I think they fear that should Facebook, Google or Apple acquire Skype it would deal a huge blow to old MS while they're already lagging in the mobile market.

I'm sure they'll do their best to put Skype to work for them, but I keep thinking this was more of a defensive move.

Looks like the current orbit will take it right over Tripoli.
http://www.n2yo.com/?s=37375

I'm with you on this one. For instance, I run a site that allows users to adjust the text size with handy javascript buttons. Cookies are what lets the site remember what text size a user prefers when they come back. Sure, I could use buttons that trigger a php script and store the preference in a session variable. But, then their preference is only saved for the duration of the session, and they have to reload the page just to change text size one notch... why bother? If we need cookie legislation, it should be crafted to target the problematic areas of the technology -- not the entire concept.