On 22/04/06, Hylton Conacher (ZR1HPC)
Hylton Conacher (ZR1HPC) wrote:
I have seen it many times that free software in the Linux sense means "free" as in freedom, not "free" as in free beer.
Free in the Oxford dictionary says free is defined as not under the control of anyoneelse, not confined/obstructed.
What is the difference as both can cost an arm and a leg? Thanks for all the thoughts but the definition still needs to be made ie what is the difference between free as in freedom and free as in beer? Is one 'freer' than the other? which of free in freedom and free as in free beer represents the M$ side? Can I assume the oter is the Linux free?
I am free to do what I want ie freedom, and that means writing software, giving it away etc ie it is my choice. I am also free to have a beer and give it away etc but I cannot change it.
Think I just solved my own query. Free as in freedom is like the Linux idea ie I can choose how I want it to be and who I give it to.
Free as in free beer is like the M$ idea ie I cannot choose how I want it but I can also choose who I want to give it to, not that I want to give away good beer mind you. :)
I see it as one (e.g. the GPL) being an intellectual freedom and the other being a physical freebie. HTH -- ============================================== I am only human, please forgive me if I make a mistake it is not deliberate. ============================================== Xmas may be over but, PLEASE DON'T drink and drive you'll make it to the next one that way. Kevan Farmer Linux user #373362 Cheslyn Hay Staffordshire WS6 7HR