[CLUE-Talk] license questions

[Jeffery C. Cann]

On Thursday 16 November 2000 15:14, Brandon N wrote:

> Actually, that isn't true, the author can change the license at any time

This statement is false.  The entire point of the GPL is that our software 
freedoms are protected even if the author wants to later change his mind 
about the license.  Once it is released under the GPL, there is no going 
back, no changing of minds, no revocation by the author.  

If you are a software author and have *any* reservations about future 
revocation than you should not release your code under the GPL.

According to the 'What is Free Software?' article:

"In order for these freedoms to be real, they must be irrevocable as long as 
you do nothing wrong; if the developer of the software has the power to 
revoke the license, even though you have not given cause, the software is not 
free."  (http://www.gnu.org/philosophy/free-sw.html)

I do not believe that the Sendmail License fully qualifies as a free license. 
 It is not specifically listed on the GNU site of licenses.  Likely the 
Sendmail License has not been specifically evaluated by FSF.  If it were 
evaluated, I think it would fall into the category of 'GPL Incompatible Free 
Software Licenses' 

(http://www.gnu.org/philosophy/license-list.html#GPLIncompatibleLicenses)

In section 1 (b) of the Sendmail license:

"Redistributions are accompanied by a copy of the Source Code or by an 
irrevocable offer to provide a copy of the Source Code for up to three years 
at the cost of materials and delivery."

This expiration date of 3 years would apper to violate the four tests of a 
free software license.

These 4 tests are:  (http://www.gnu.org/philosophy/free-sw.html)

"The freedom to run the program, for any purpose (freedom 0). The freedom to 
study how the program works, and adapt it to your needs (freedom 1). Access 
to the source code is a precondition for this. The freedom to redistribute 
copies so you can help your neighbor (freedom 2). The freedom to improve the 
program, and release your improvements to the public, so that the whole 
community benefits. (freedom 3). Access to the source code is a precondition 
for this.

For those interested I would recommend they study the philosophy of the Free 
Software Foundation (http://www.gnu.org). 

Jeff

-- 
jccann [at] home [dot] com