On Friday 22 March 2002 17:37, hwm@onetel.net.uk wrote: <alot snipped>
If this were the case, nobody should be allowed to download Suse Linux from the Internet. But this is apparently possible (I rather bought my copies) though one does not only download files but a collection of files. So this 'collection' argument does not apply here. As to the bungled software this must of coursed be looked at individually.
Not true at all! You are making a huge jump from what I said to mean that no one is allowed to download it from the Internet. There is a collection of software that someone **could** claim the right to, legally and enforceably, depending on where you live and what you are doing with it. I know there are differences in the copyright laws between the US, UK and Germany, but the basics apply. I have a Thin Lizzy songbook that I bought in London about 15 years ago that says the compilation is copyrighted. So at least then, the UK had laws allowing people to copyright collections. The law **still** applies in the US. Besides, it seems you were not listening to what I said. Just because someone has a copyright, does not mean they prevent you from copying it. I said: "the specific collection **could** be copyrighted and you **could** be criminally liable." If (not that the word "If" does **not** mean they have or will) SuSE has decided to copyright the collection, they could say that you could not copy the collection at all (Internet or CD). Or they **might **say you can copy the collection if you download it from their site, but **only** from their site. Or, they **could** say that you could copy it, download it and even sell it. That does not alter the fact that SuSE **might** have a copyright on the collection and you **might** be criminally liable if you make copies and sell them (or maybe even if you don't sell them, just copy them). Essentially, all of the GPL software is copyrighted. However, the copyright owner allows you to copy it. That does not alter the fact that if they wanted they **could** say you cannot copy it. The **could** also say that it may only be copy it with just a **specific** Linux distribution. That's what a copyright is. You have the right to say how it is copied. (that what the word means!!!) Regards, jimmo -- --------------------------------------- "Be more concerned with your character than with your reputation. Your character is what you really are while your reputation is merely what others thing you are." -- John Wooden --------------------------------------- Be sure to visit the Linux Tutorial: http://www.linux-tutorial.info --------------------------------------- NOTE: All messages sent to me in response to my posts to newsgroups or forums are subject to reposting.