[Developing python bindings between Blender and NeL]
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What is Free Software ?
The idea that all software must be associated to four freedoms.
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.
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How to create Free Software
Write a piece of code ;-)
You are the author ? You are the copyright holder.
With great power comes great responsibilities.
You have the power to license your program.
You can't just say "this is not copyrighted".
You can't just say "this is public domain".
Files without copyright or license information are indeed proprietary.
You'd be a fool to believe people telling you not to worry about these boring details.
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Free Software has heavy weight competitors
Last year, Free Software was acknowledged as a serious competitor by proprietary software vendors.
Two actions were launched.
Discourage people from using the GNU GPL license.
Encourage people to mix proprietary software with Free Software.
Probably the only subject on which proprietary software vendors and the Free Software Foundation agree : mixing proprietary software with Free Software and abandonning the GNU GPL is the most efficient way to seriously harm Free Software.
The GNU GPL does not allow anyone to take away the freedom that was given by you.
Using 100% Free Software solutions makes you independant of any third party.
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Free Software author duties
Protect the freedom granted with a protective license such as the GNU GPL.
Make sure licensing information is properly applied.
Include the full text of the license.
Copyright notice in each file : Copyright (C) Foo Bar
License notice in each file.
Copyright and license notice in toplevel README file.
Arrange for the software to run without a need to use proprietary software.
It does not matter if it's slower. Free Software DRI drivers for ATI 7500 are not fast but they do the job.
It does not matter if the Free Software is not functionaly superior. Most people would say Blender is not as mature as proprietary software competitors.
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Face the ethics
The technical myth, revisited
Quality, Efficiency, Reliability
South Africa sad outcome
The long story of Lectra
Free Software is an ethical matter
If you think a Free Software program will make your life easier, you may be disapointed.
If you rely on a Free Software program to preserve your freedom, it will not fail you.
