Recently created topics in EFF

They both seem to focus on free speech rights. I get that the EFF is focused more on how these rights apply to technology, but why doesn't the ACLU do this kind of advocacy as a part of their work? What projects do the EFF do that the ACLU wouldn't?

Most times when people are talking about software patents, they are always saying you should get them for defensive purposes. Unless the company is evil (jk). I particularly don't like that because it feels like you are giving up and going along with something you normally wouldn't do but feel forced.

I'm wondering what the best way to protect yourself from reprisal would be *besides* going along with the system. Could you, for example, get everything for a patent worked up (as in, the full application) and then put the application into the public domain?

Obviously, that doesn't work if you want to keep the tech proprietary. What about the old mail-hack, sending yourself a registered letter containing the document.

It seems like you would still be at risk for a lawsuit since the validity of the document isn't stamped with the USPTOs approval, but would the above methods help in any quantifiable way? Would they help to prove prior art and dismiss any claims?

On the Internet, this would be a lot of countries!

I see that the EFF has a "Patent Busting" program, but it's all overwhelming to me.

Can somebody explain in a few simple bullet points what's wrong with the current US patent system, and why technology companies should or shouldn't invest the time, money, and resources into filing for them?

Something I could use in an argument with the co-founders of my current startup company would be ideal -- I really don't want to put the time and effort into patents if there's no value in doing so.

I've heard something about a section of the DMCA that might allow that.

My ISP received a DMCA complaint about something I posted to my website. Can I do anything about it?

Do laws regarding blogging vary from state to state?