i don't really see what the problem is. it's not like gibson never nicked a shape off anyone else when they thought it was more popular.
They had a go at making a couple of superstrats back in the hair metal days, but I can't think of too many other shapes they've actually nicked (let's forget the Jimi Hendrix "Strat".... :? :P ). They mostly just make small changes to existing models in a feeble attempt to follow trends.
Going back to PRS, I guess making "copies" is what most other guitar makers, even high-end ones, do. But I always thought PRS became successful because they
didn't try to follow the pack, they just made a few variations on a couple of basic designs and stuck to them.
Now they have far too many models, most of which are just microscopically-tweaked versions of previous ones, and just when you're getting used to them they're discontinued and replaced by something else. I mean how long did things like the SC250, SC245 and CE Alder actually last? They seemed to have the life cycle of mayflies. :?