Pump Scout: That is one reason why open source exists as opposed to "encouraging public domain releases". The idea is you are the owner and as the owner you allowing others to use it in certain ways. Others are getting access under a licence with terms and conditions. The point of these terms and conditions is to make it non-restrictive, to free them to use it, but still declare ownership. Others cannot patent it on you because you are still the owner. Mind you, all kinds of insanity happens with the legal system of every country, but that applies to traditional patents too.