Abstract
The standard American grading system recognizes an A as the best possible grade, while an F represents failure. To achieve an A, the typical benchmark is anywhere above 90%. Falling well below this mark, any grade below 60% constitutes failure. Accordingly, a higher percentage in class equates to a better GPA. Following this same logic in the world of sports, the greatest free-throw shooter in NBA history holds the record at 91%. The greatest field goal kicker in NFL history holds the record at 89.1%. However, the highest batting average in MLB history sits at .366, or 36.6%. According to the American grading system, the best batting average in MLB history is a failing grade. A free-throw success rate of 50% falls well short of the mark, yet the same success rate in baseball would make for the greatest batting average in history. Should such a seemingly low success rate correspond to less of an achievement compared to that of the free-throw shooter who shoots 91%? Of course not. Athletes cannot easily compare success rates across different sports because making a free-throw is different from hitting a baseball.
Recommended Citation
Brooks W. Fleischmann,
The Obviousness Paradox: Should Design and Utility Patents Play by the Same Rules?,
90 Mo. L. Rev.
(2025)
Available at: https://scholarship.law.missouri.edu/mlr/vol90/iss3/15