Re: the free software paradigm [was Re: Amazon used lisp & C exclusively?

Kent M Pitman <pitman@xxxxxxxxxxx> writes:

Does it benefit the end-user? Yes and no. It kills competition on the
underlying issue, so if they like the free component that everyone now
depends on, then it helps them.

This is simply not true. Watch the development of C/C++ compilers on
Unix. Until gcc came along, the compilers were really getting old in
the tooth, but not a *SINGLE* vendor updated their offering. By
version 1.38, gcc was simply the best C compiler on Unix. Only at
this point did the vendors get around to updating their own compilers
and offer more serious tools. At least Sun and HP sold lots of copies
of their compiler suite. So it is entirely possible to compete with
free software.

There are practically no examples of free software destroying any
product that offered superior capabilities. E.g GIMP vs. Photoshop,
CVS vs. Perforce or Clearcase.

In other words, free software is just another competitor. Unless your
idea is to eliminate all competition, I really cannot see the merit in
the railings against free software.

It's all very nice to theorize, but how about reconciling theories
with facts?

rsi
--
<rsi@xxxxxxxxx> a.k.a. Rajappa Iyer.
Absinthe makes the tart grow fonder.
.

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