On Tue, 18 Dec 2001, Ron Stark wrote:

> This is an open question, because I don't have an answer.
> 
> If a domain name has no intrinsic value as it's merely a temporary license
> for use, how then can names be auctioned to the highest bidder, on the
> premise that they indeed have value?
> 
> I have trouble reconciling these opposing positions.

"IANAL" - but I'd be tempted to guess that it's not the name which is
being auctioned but rather the "temporary license for use" (or whatever
you'd like to call it).

So the (likely) tenure of the license would presumably be a significant
influence on the price.

Regards,
Neale.