Re: Bug#181028: cdrecord: promotes non-free software
On Sat, Feb 22, 2003 at 07:24:38PM -0600, Manoj Srivastava wrote:
> Why do you say that? Seems to me it is incentive not to free
> the dvd burner. I would much rather we promote people who are
> writing free software.
I mean it would potentially encourage improvements in the cd burning
portion of the software. You're right, it would be an incentive not to
free the burner portion, but in this case that's not really necessary
anyhow thanks to the dvdrecord fork which already provides that
functionality.
I agree also, that we should rather promote people who are writing free
software, but the best method of promotion isn't so clear as Ben wanted
it to seem. If the upstream is snubbed enough in the name of free
software, he may simply get fed up with it and stop giving away his
labor. If he stops work on cdrecorder, does that help free software?
Granted, that's an extreme circumstance, but after the whole mICQ
incident, I"m much more likely to look to extreme circumstances as
being possible.
Ultimately I'm just playing devil's advocate, as the decision to remove
or keep the ad isn't mine, but I think pause and some real thought is
needed when going against upstream's wishes. Simply saying "It's our
right to do it, so we will!" isn't exactly the most informative or well
thought out way of justifying yourself.
- David
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