Bjorn Reese wrote: > On Thu, 2004-02-19 at 14:23, John Cowan wrote: > > Therefore, the distribution of all GPLed software is, at least in > > the U.S., forbidden by the terms of the GPL, and should come to a > > screeching halt. I have spoken. > > The probationer is not prevented from distributing the software > because of patent restrictions.
Section 7 of the GPL is not just about patents. The first sentence contains "If, ... for any other reason (not limited to patent issues), conditions are imposed on you..." But I had always interpreted this clause to only apply to _me_ as licensee. It shouldn't matter to me that there is someone else who cannot "satisfy simultaneously [his] obligations under [the GPL]". Bill Gates could contract with Steve Ballmer that he will not ever distribute GPL-licensed software. Surely that couldn't have the consequence that *I* can no longer distribute that software? Arnoud -- Arnoud Engelfriet, Dutch patent attorney - Speaking only for myself Patents, copyright and IPR explained for techies: http://www.iusmentis.com/ -- license-discuss archive is at http://crynwr.com/cgi-bin/ezmlm-cgi?3
