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unskilledplay t1_j536znm wrote

I take issue with this. The biggest commercial and scientific benefit to quantum computing is listed as #2 in this list. Quantum computers can simulate quantum interactions more efficiently than silicon computers.

One of the uses would be the ability to predict properties of materials like metal alloys. A world where cheaper and superior materials are available for commercial use is beneficial to everyone, even if IP laws restrict who can produce these materials.

Another use would be to predict how molecules interact with the body. Sure, this will be a huge boon to Pharma, but again, the entire world wins.

On the whole, quantum advantage is projecting to be one of those "a rising tide lifts all boats" things, but that doesn't get clicks and comments.

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digitecca t1_j53n932 wrote

This rising tide lifts the yachts while drowning the boatless. You really think that Pharma will benefit from quantum computing and pass those benefits off to society? This just further enables their stranglehold on the general public. Same for the IP laws you mentioned. Unless the technology is open sourced and accessible, the trickle down benefits you speak of are going to be small and take forever to reach. A competitive quantum market will only enable the rich to become richer.

I’d have better faith in this take if quantum computing was being discussed in a similar manner to the Covid vaccine: a necessity to be shared for the betterment of the human race. The fact that we’re already discussing an arms race of sorts tells me this will not be an altruistic development.

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