[Fsf-india] Re: Free software, open source... is starting to come out of theThird World too...

[Paul Swider]

Arun,

I would very much like to work with you and others to deliver the message of free and
open-source software to the widest possible audience. This list is one good way to
start but there are other similar outlets where those interested in development issues
discuss these ideas. With all due respect, we will have to expect to meet considerable
objection because the development field has a long history and its own entrenched
patterns. Still, I think it worthwhile to spread the message far and wide and work on
valuable projects to create useful, user-friendly software. I think the message will
be better received where it is most needed, in developing countries, because people
there are more pragmatic in adopting what works.

One project that I think will be valuable is
http://www.freesoftware.fsf.org/rule/
There are others but this is the first I can think off now.

I also think there would be great value for people like yourself who are in the free
software community to rally others to the cause. I have tried to do this and met with
some interest but not as much as if I were an "insider" to software. I also think
specifically the free software people from developing countries are a particularly
receptive audience. The greatest thing about this is that by its very nature, the free
software community is global, collaborative and active. If a significant subset of
this community can be motivated to action, the rest of the world had better stand
back. I once heard someone describe linux enthusiasts as the "advancing penguin
hoards" and could instantly understand the power of those numbers of highly motivated
people. We would have to make them understand that spreading free software to those
who most need it is as or more important as merely creating it.

Paul



Arun M wrote:

> Hi Paul,
>
>     As you have suggested implication of Free Software is not just
> in the field of software. Directly or indirectly it translates from
> Science to environmental issues.
>
> Quantitatively adoption of free software is increasing.
> But qualitatively to what extent the messages of Free Software
> is reaching people ? This is something that worries us in Free Software
> Movement. With out this qualitative change in the long run the
> Free Software developments will start to fail, hurting all of us.
>
> In this context I would like to request people in the Development
> sector and Free Software movement to join hands and make the benefits
> and messages (Freedom, community, sharing etc) of Free Software reach
> more people. Programs like community information centers using Free Software
> can help here.
> We needs to identify some programs in this regard and working.
>
> > Indian schools, and related work in South Africa and even in the US. I also note
> > the launch of Red Flag in China and the adoption of open source by some
> > developed-country governments as well. The trend is apparent but it still needs
> > to be pointed in more directions.
>
> Yes, we need help and advice of people like you in making the
> fruits of Freedom provided by Free Software reach more people.
>
> Regards,
> Arun

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