Linus Explains Why Open Source Works
Aug 13, 2007, 15:00 (4 Talkback[s])
(Other stories by Bruce Byfield)
"Linus Torvalds is often described as an open source champion,
interested in licensing only insofar as it affects his ability to
share code and improve software more quickly. However, his real
position is more complicated--and to some, perhaps surprising.
"Asked point-blank which is more important, sharing code or
empowering users--the declared goal of the free software champions
whom Torvalds is routinely depicted as being in opposition
with--and his first response in what he calls 'the usual Linus
polite words' is 'That's a really stupid question. Why do you put
it as an 'either or' kind of concept?' He then goes on to explain
that, because open source operates in the same manner as scientific
query, and is a matter of enlightened self-interest, sharing code
and empowering users 'are not at odds at all'--a view that, in the
end, places him closer to the free software position than either
free software or open source followers might care to admit..."
Complete
Story
Related Stories:
