On Tue, 20 May 2008, Joerg Schilling wrote: > > The reason why GPLd code may happily call non-GPLd code is because otherwise > GPLd code would be illegal on AIX, HP-UX or Cygwin (or other closed source > platforms). This is what the FSF likes to avoid. Given the fact that the GPLv2
It seems that it is time for you to refresh your memory of GPLv2: "However, as a special exception, the source code distributed need not include anything that is normally distributed (in either source or binary form) with the major components (compiler, kernel, and so on) of the operating system on which the executable runs, unless that component itself accompanies the executable." This is why GPL programs can use a closed-source libc and other libraries which are standard in an operating system. While GPL does use the term "work", it used to describe a product based on the "Program". The "Program" is the part protected for redistribution under GPL. > Conclusion 2) is that if the ZFS port is done in a way that does not > introduce code "derived" from the Linux kernel into ZFS, there will > be no problem with a CDDLd ZFS used by Linux. I have not read CDDL, but if it includes terms which revoke the recipient's rights to use the source code or Program (as was previously mentioned here), then it is not compatible with GPL distribution requirements. Failure to adhere to GPL distribution requirements simply revokes the right to distribute a work based on the Program, and never to revoke the right to use the Program. The user of a GPLed Program is under no obligation to the author of that Program other than to similarly provide the source code if he cares to share the Program with someone else. Hint: If the Linux kernel (a "work") was to do something which violates GPL, then it can no longer be distributed. That is why the Linux folks are so worried about this ZFS "poison pill". Bob ====================================== Bob Friesenhahn [EMAIL PROTECTED], http://www.simplesystems.org/users/bfriesen/ GraphicsMagick Maintainer, http://www.GraphicsMagick.org/ _______________________________________________ zfs-discuss mailing list zfs-discuss@opensolaris.org http://mail.opensolaris.org/mailman/listinfo/zfs-discuss
