linux-kernel - Re: [PATCH] USB: mark USB drivers as being GPL only

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Message-ID: <47A5D895.20300@davidnewall.com>
Date:	Mon, 04 Feb 2008 01:37:01 +1030
From:	David Newall <davidn@...idnewall.com>
To:	Greg KH <greg@...ah.com>
CC:	Christer Weinigel <christer@...nigel.se>,
	linux-usb@...r.kernel.org, linux-kernel@...r.kernel.org
Subject: Re: [PATCH] USB: mark USB drivers as being GPL only

Greg KH wrote:
> It comes down to the simple fact, if you wish to use Linux, abide by the
> license it comes under.  To do otherwise is both disenginous and
> illegal[1].

I think you're being dishonest.  This isn't really about Linux and it
being licensed under GPL, is it?  Not if you're being 100% honest.  This
is really about Beejay's* kernel module; and you are attempting to force
her to release that under GPL.  You should 'fess up, that the change is
0% technical, 0% unavoidable and 100% political.  This does, of course,
disadvantage Linux with respect to many classes of devices, for example
GSM transceivers when used in those parts of the world^ where regulatory
requirements prohibit modification of power or frequency settings, which
effectively prohibits open-source driver.

An unbending bias towards GPL is impractical in many markets.  It also
hands an additional point or two of market share to Microsoft; who no
doubt will be immensely grateful.

*The fictitious author of an imaginary driver.
^Probably all of the world.
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