Re: Encoding the name in the file contents (was Re: Towards a new LPPL draft)
On 24 Jul 2002, Jeff Licquia wrote:
> printf("This is Standard LaTeX\n");
>
> is not allowed, and the restriction is allowed by the DFSG.
Maybe. If it's part of an API (like an HTTP header), or it's a common
practice for programs to switch on this string, I'd probably argue that
this restriction makes it non-free.
The ability to make modifications and still have programs that depend on
it still work is the fundamental freedom I'm arguing for.
> What is the difference between that and the following?
> register_std("LaTeX");
> (Which, as I understand it, is a C equivalent to the \NeedsTeXFormat
> thing.)
The difference is that the printf is intended to identify to the human
running the program what version she has, and the registration is intended
to prevent compatible derivative works.
--
Mark Rafn dagon@dagon.net <http://www.dagon.net/>
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