[Fsf-friends] Re: Pitching free software directly before UN and other govt. circles

Ramanraj K ramanraj@md4.vsnl.net.in
Thu Nov 20 23:37:56 IST 2003


Russell Nelson wrote:

>Ramanraj K writes:
> > understand that both are one and the same to us, from the point of view 
> > of the copyright law, the expression "free software" makes it plain that 
> > copying, sale, exhibition, installation, modification, redistribution, 
> > and trading are "free" with "free software" but these rights are 
> > "restricted to/by proprietor" in the case of proprietary software.
>
>Microsoft gives away free software.
>
> > The availability of source code, price, quality of software,
> > development model etc. are qualites that cannot distinguish or
> > differentiate our software from proprietary software. It would be
> > in the best interests of our community to promote "free software"
> > terminology in govt. circles to maintain clarity avoiding needless
> > confusion.  Hence this request.
>
>Sorry, but "free software" is inherently confusing. Why do you think
>RMS always has to give his free speech/beer footnote?  Why do you
>think proprietary software companies give away free software?  Because
>they're our friends?  I don't think so.
>
>The solution to all of this nonsense is to establish a certification
>mark, which is what we've done.
>
>I don't want to continue this discussion.
>
>  
>

Time alone can bring home the truth.








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