Computer software without a computer is as useless as a computer without computer software. By this (your) argument, computer software is as important as the computer itself and is therefore just as deserving of remuneration. It's hard to believe that you have seriously considered the implications of what you're writing and yet fail to see this obvious contradiction.
I never said anything was of equal importance, only that software which is removed from the computing environment in which it is used, typically has less value (in my mind). I can have a pile of software CD's and no computer and not get much personal utility out of it. I never said the software itself was worthless.
I also said nothing of remunerations except to mention that whatever you can bargain or negotiate for, is what you get. If your price isn't right...
It's for the most part, about the contract. Contracts are about mutual consent betwixt persons of interest. Contracts are not between me and someone not privy to the terms. That's all I was trying to convey.
I see no contradictions anywhere.