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> but idealism in software needs to die.

Please nobody hear listen to this guy. I don't want to live in that world.



We already live in that world :)

There are simply those who choose to accept it and those who don't!


However, it's us who define this world. Fatalism is not an option. (Otherwise, we may enjoy the questionable comforts of tyranny.)


It's not fatalism. I don't want to live in a world where a guy says I can do something with his software, and then gets upset and tries to rally people against me when I do. I've had girlfriends like that.

If you don't want people to make money off your software, or use it a certain way, don't put it under a license that says it's fine to do so.


I guess, the world OP rather wants to live in, is a world where you give and give back. Especially, if you can afford it.


That's called the AGPL


What does he get back with AGPL?


Any additions or modifications made to his original code


Unfortunately you can't control the behavior of others. Otherwise there wouldn't be many problems in the world!

Recognizing this fact and operating with that as an assumption is important.


But, in the long run, doesn't this turn us into proverbial paperclip collecting AIs? The mode of sharing and using shared software is also a matter of social responsibility.

E.g., if the author is obviously asking for sponsorship to maintain the project, as a major user/customer, you should consider a donation. Otherwise, you should be stripped of the benefit of the doubt, regarding the question, whether you are a civil person or not. Likewise, you shouldn't engage in actions, which are prone to doom (economically or otherwise) the project you're profiting from.




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