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There is a lot of misunderstanding here
by abraxas on Sat 3rd Feb 2007 23:57 UTC
Member since:

Point 1: Linux is only the kernel and itself is in no danger of being illegal for Novell to redistribute because Linux has made it clear that the GPLv3 will not be adopted by the kernel

Point 2: It is apparent that most of the people who replied to the articles haven't actually read the articles. The FSF isn't trying to stop Novell from distributing Linux per se. They are attempting to incorporate language in the GPLv3 that ensure that deals like the one Novell agreed to will be against the future licensing terms.

Point 3: Open source is still open. Novell still has the rights to all GPLv2 software which is the majority of software out there, including previously GPLv2 licensed software copyrighted by FSF. It would be difficult to independently develop all the software that the FSF releases but if the license is such a big issue I'm sure others would join in to develop these versions. If the majority prefer the old licensing the FSF will lose all control as the GPLv2 versions will be the only ones still being actively developed.

Point 4: Even if the GPLv3 incorporates this language it may actually have no effect on Novell other than forcing them to nullify their contract with Microsoft.

There is a lot of talk in the comments section that have no basis in reality and are just knee-jerk reactions to a sensational headline. Despite what most people are saying this is actually the good part of open source. If people want the new license they will use it. If they don't they won't. It is a truly democratic system.

Edited 2007-02-04 00:00

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