Re: Non-free files in source packages?

[Simon Josefsson <jas@extundo.com>]

Glenn Maynard <glenn@zewt.org> writes:

> On Thu, Jan 06, 2005 at 12:04:44AM +0000, Lewis Jardine wrote:
>> In the case of data tables, in many jurisdictions, a mere collection of 
>> facts is not copyrightable; the classic example is a telephone directory 
>> (everything in it is an uncreative fact; that there are thousands of 
>> them, which may have taken a lot of effort to gather, is immaterial).
>> 
>> It may be the case that the data could be plucked from the RFC and 
>> freely distributed, albeit only in places that don't allow 'sweat of the 
>> brow' copyrights.
>
> Alternatively, you could try asking the relevant people if they'd grant
> a more permissive license for the data table, in order to encourage the
> wide and correct use of the standard surrounding it.

That is a good suggestion.

I have mailed the RFC authors now.  I'm not convinced they are the
only copyright holders, but it could be a step in the right direction.

Thanks,
Simon