Despite the glaring errors in Pelosi’s statement, like the misuse of the term “LCD” and saying that Steve Jobs “did a good idea,” her point sets a valid yet dangerous precedent. Yes, the government did fund almost all the pertinent technology within the iPhone. It’s hard to argue that Apple wouldn’t have had a terribly difficult time putting together the very first smartphone without software, screens and metal. However, the value of any piece of technology is not the sum of the parts. The iPhone was a revolutionary device that has dramatically changed everyday life. Whether or not you believe it is for the better is irrelevant. Taking credit for the invention of the iPhone because you were the first person to create a certain type of metal is like Benjamin Franklin saying he invented the light bulb because he discovered electricity. Yes, your existence was instrumental to its creation. But you didn’t invent it. That’s not how it works. Pelosi’s words should, however, not be misconstrued as a war cry against Apple. The hearing in question was, at the time, focusing on how innovation can help the Democrats further their journey to the White House. Pelosi was merely trying to light a fire under the belly of the party in order to demonstrate that technology is not out of the government’s realm of utilization.
