As reported all over the web this week, Microsoft has decided to ship Windows 7 in Europe without Internet Explorer. For a long time, the EU has been complaining that Microsoft has been using their dominant position to hawk IE on unsuspecting computer users.

Horseradish!

Let’s bring this discussion back across the pond for a second, and look at new home construction. The Department of Justice had a quarrel with Microsoft awhile back over a similar matter. Of course, if they were really going after monopolies they would go after the micro-monopolies of new home builders for charging egregious fees for options. Take for instance the elegant and simple recessed light. The last time I bought a new house the builder wanted $125 for every single one I added. A quick trip to Home Depot confirmed that the hardware costs less than $10, and wiring was equally inexpensive. I wanted to put their lights out.

And what about the auto industry that forces you to choose from their tires, or their radios, or their floormats. Shouldn’t they be spanked? And what about government in general? Shouldn’t I be able to choose a DMV that offers better service if I want to? I think my four year old nephew could do that, and I’d gladly pay him instead.

But let’s take a step back for a second and remember that there is a major difference between these comparisons and Internet Explorer. Internet Explorer is free. Free as in no charge. Free as in ‘No sir, you can keep your money’. You buy the operating system, and you get a free browser. Restaurants do the same thing; buy a meal, get a free dessert. Is the European Union really that uptight to complain about getting their dessert for free? And a dessert that can easily be replaced by downloading another browser? Maybe they don't like free things and will soon consider an air tax.