[throwawaykf05]

Actually, innovation through forced workarounds of patents has long been one of the reasons for patent systems. Though not originally stated explicitly, many jurists and economists over time have espoused this line of thought in support for patents.

[cben]

Can you give any pointers? It's plausible to claim patents do little harm because they can be worked around but saying they bring net benefit because the must be worked around feels bizarre.