Saturday discussion - Class action lawsuit against Apple

The alleged reception problems with the iPhone 4 are all over the web and conventional media. But in case you missed it, it seems that the signal strength reduces when the phone is held in a certain way.

Judging by the number of people writing and talking about it, I'm guessing that there is a problem.

The latest development is that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Apple citing negligence, design defect, breach of warranty and even fraud. As well as retribution for the "emotional distress" and " annoyance" caused to purchasers of the iPhone, the lawsuit is seeking punitive damages against Apple for their "wilful, wanton, malicious and oppressive actions."

Am I the only one who feels this is absolute madness?

This kind of litigation is like a cancer in the US at the moment. And I dread that it ever spreads to Europe.

If the claims are true, it would appear that Apple have made a mistake. A frickin' mistake!

But you can't make mistakes anymore in the US. Because somebody will sue your ass off.

You can't take risks anymore in the US. Because somebody will sue your ass off.

You can't serve hot coffee without a warning on the cup anymore. Because somebody will sue your ass off.

So what do the businesses do?

They hire a team of lawyers who examine every risk, every action, every part of any new idea. Then they plaster their products and literature with as many disclaimers as they can.

And who bears the costs of the lawyers, the printing, the disclaimers, the litigation insurance? Ultimately the very consumer who wants to buy the product.

"Objects in the rear view mirror may appear closer than they are." Well, thanks for that pearl of wisdom.

This whole culture of litigation is slowly but surely strangling business. We're seeing the pinnacle of a democratic and capitalist society ebbing away because of it.

And personal freedom is being eroded as well.

"You can't do that!"

"Don't ride there!"

"Sorry, it's closed!"

And all because they might be sued.

What do you think?