On Friday 03 October 2003 11:57, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
<snip>
> My next issue... Just sort of something to help me understand better.
> Where does the GPL state that I can't use LINUX in my own company. I
> thought that the entire reason for releasing something under the GPL is
> so that I am free to do with it as I please, I just can't claim the
> ownership of someone else's work. Correct me if I am wrong, but I was
> under the impression that people/companies can use the GPL software for
> any purpose.
<snip>
The idea that the GPL allows a company to "use the GPL software for any
purpose" is not exactly correct. There are limitations to what a company can
use the software for. A company can not use the GPL software to extend their
proprietary code-base by inserting it into their code. They can not use a
GPLed toolkit, nor link against a GPLed binary (though they can use either if
they are LGPLed). They cannot incorporate GPLed software into their product
and keep it proprietary. As long as they do not redistribute the software, a
company can do anything they want with GPLed software and GPLed code. But if
they intend to redistribute the code, then there are rules as to how that
code can be used and modified. Specifically, any modifications, and any
software which uses or links against GPLed code at compile time, must be
released under the GPL.
Most of the proponents of the GPL (myself included) see these restrictions as
commonsense requirements that promote continued sharing; it forces the
company to give as it has received. But to a corporation like SCO, these
restrictions are intolerable. At least with a proprietary library they can
buy the right to use it. Often with a GPLed library their only options are to
reimplement it, or steal it. They see the GPL as causing unfair competition
("others can use it, why can't I?"). I see them as selfish.
This is an important aspect of the GPL which must be understood by those who
defend it. This restriction is why many people brand it as a counter freedom
license. These people instead prefer BSD style licenses or Artistic style
licenses. Though it makes the GPL controversial, this restriction is also its
greatest strength, for it protects our freedom. The GPL prevents corporations
from stealing my code and putting it in their product without compensating
me. The ones that are looking for a free lunch are not the ones using the
GPL.
Richard Esplin
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BYU Unix Users Group
http://uug.byu.edu/
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