This is an absolutist position that permits no subtlety. But the patent system is a subtle incentivization which seeks to balance a number of forces (in particular, it incentivizes people to invent new things that they can profit from, while also avoiding trade secrets).

If he didn't patent his work someone else will and collect the royalties resulting in 0 additional freedom. There is nothing gained by not playing.

Why is the right thing to do work for no compensation?

Someone like Nils Bohlin and Volvo for the three-point seatbelt patent?

It's a dog eat dog world.