Linus Torvalds interview on CNN

[Jamon Camisso]

Madison Kelly wrote:
> Jamon Camisso wrote:
>> What are people's thoughts on open source vs. free software? Can such 
>> a distinction exist? Which of the two is the better term, 
>> ideologically and/or practically? Considering we all pretty much use 
>> both GNU and Linux, some credit deserves to be sent Stallman's way 
>> doesn't it? THen again, perhaps we wouldn't be using GNU were it not 
>> for Linux.
> 
>  From a practical point of view, GPL'ed (and the like) software is more 
> welcoming of programmers, I think, because who wants to contribute to a 
> program where there work is taken and that's that? If I am writing a 
> program where I don't want or need any help then maybe free software 
> makes sense but even then... If I am going to contribute to a pool of 
> software, no matter how modestly, I would like to know that others will 
> be compelled (legally or philosophically) to do the same if they benefit 
> from my contribution.

That's a good point. Essentially weeds out anyone who would take unfair 
advantage of altruism. Keeps everyone honest and gives credit where 
credit is due. Then again, I wouldn't want my name associated with the 
pieces of w2k source code that I've seen...

Jamon

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