Re: python and gpl

From: JanC (usenet_spam_at_janc.invalid)
Date: 02/03/05


Date: Thu, 03 Feb 2005 01:20:36 GMT

Paul Rubin schreef:

> My IANAL amateur reading is that the GPL does in fact apply, at least
> in the US. Running the program is not restricted, but loading the
> program from disk to memory before you can run it counts as copying
> it, which invokes the license, Computer Associates v. Altai, 982 F.2d
> 693. I personally believe that doctrine is insane, but that's what
> software companies pushed through the courts in order to make
> shrink-wrap EULA's enforceable. (Otherwise they'd only be enforceable
> if you agreed to the terms before the vendor got your money).

In Belgium (and the whole EU, I think) copying a program from disk to
memory to be able to run it is covered under "fair use" (just like copying
digital data from an audio CD to a DAC to be able to listen to it is fair
use), which can't be restricted by companies.

AFAIK. IANAL. Etc. ;-)

-- 
JanC
"Be strict when sending and tolerant when receiving."
RFC 1958 - Architectural Principles of the Internet - section 3.9


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