Re: Problem with InstallShield (Was Re: [Bug 629] Changed - Problemwith InstallShield: ole:CoTreatAsClass(stub), ole:CoGetClassObject)

At 03:56 PM 5/9/02 -0500, Sean C. Farley wrote:
>In none of these, do I have a need to go beyond the BSD or X11 licenses.
>Reasons to use a GNU license:
>1) Want others to have to give out their code
>2) Hamper others from making money on the code

More reasons:

2) Prevent embrace and extend tactics. Imagine Linux being under X11. I 
wouldn't feel comfortable thinking about the possibility of M$ using this 
tactic. They certainly have the cash to afford making their own fork, think 
about what happened with the Kerberos protocol.

3) Increase the amount of available free software. This is especially true 
in combination with point 1 you mentioned. I think some companies will 
start using/improving xGPL software when the cost of reimplementing it is 
too high.

4) In the case of bespoken software: If the developer uses a xGPL code as 
basis, changes MUST be returned. If the license was X11 the hiring company 
could demand: Don't release the code back to the public. Ask the guys from 
CodeWeavers about their experiences in this regard. This will also increase 
the amount of free software.

5) In a sense free software is better because the whole world can profit. 
With proprietary software poor countries/small companies are in a 
technological disadvantage. Free software democratizes technology. 
Therefore it makes sense to try to enforce as much free software as 
possible. Using the xGPL is a way to accomplish this.

Finally, I was one of those who opposed the license switch. And still I 
don't say it was a good idea. Honestly, I don't know if the change was 
wise. I only came to realize that the xGPL has quite some points in its 
favour also.

Best regards, Roland