[ Thanks to David
Culp for this link. ]
“I recently read an article on osOpinion entitled The
Failure of Linux: Credibility and Responsibility” written by
someone who calls himself Monty Manley. As to whether that is a
real name or not I do not know. In the article Monty puts forth
the idea that Linux is a failure because of a variety of reasons. I
would like to respond to some of those reasons put forth [by] Mr.
Manley.“
“Much of the beginning of the article tells of Mr. Manleys
programming experience and work ethic. Mr. Manley claims to work on
systems where a failure could cost someone his life, though never
really tells us what he does. He also claims that in the beginning
he liked Linux and now finds NT a better alternative, though never
gives technical reasons (or any reasons) for his decision. His
first major hit against Linux occurs with this statement….”
“I believe what has happened is that Mr. Manley has made one of
the classic blunders when talking about free software, confusing
the meaning of the word free. Free software means freedom, not free
of cost. Many people forget this when they talk about software
being free. If you are calling me a freeloader because I believe
software should be free as in freedom of speech then go ahead, but
I have no problem paying for software at a fair price either.
However, it seems in today’s world fair price means $500.00 or more
for an application that is buggy and late. Then, you have to pay an
additional $250.00 when the upgrade/bug fix comes out, I have had
cars that cost less!”