Re: RE-PROPOSED: The Dictator Test
On Wed, 7 Jul 2004, Branden Robinson wrote:
> Reaction to my earlier proposal[1] appears to be basically positive. Not
> everyone thought I picked the best name for it, though.
>
> Nevertheless, I'd like to move forward, and propose the addition of the
> following to the DFSG FAQ[2].
>
> The Dictator Test:
>
> A licence is not Free if it prohibits actions which, in the absence of
> acceptance of the licence, would be allowed by copyright or other
> applicable laws.
>
> License grantors do not have a private right of legislation; that is,
> they are not dictators who can subject you to their personal jurisdiction
> through a license.
>
> If anyone has an objection, please speak up ASAP.
Not really an objection, but for completeness I think some practical examples
of things which fail this test should be added to the FAQ as well.
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