Re: [luau] that crazy GPL stuff...

[Hawaii Linux Institute]

Warren Togami wrote:

SCO

We need to realize that the validity of GPL is closely tied to the 
notion of shrink-wrap licenses.  There are two important issues.  First, 
since there are no face-to-face negotiations, do you really need to 
abide by the terms of GPL and open your source code?  If you have to 
open your source code, to what extent?  Since there is no uniform law 
regarding shrink-wrap licenses, answer to this question will of course 
vary from state to state.  Then, there is the issue of whether the GPL 
will bind you forever.  Both issues have been advanced by David Boise of 
SCO.

With regard to SCO,  AFAIK, the real issue is, whether Microsoft should 
be allowed to essentially underwrite the entire cost of the law suit 
under the color of a highly questionable licensing agreement.  A friend 
in Massachusetts told me that some firms are considering filing a 
federal RICO ( Racketeering Influenced and Corrupt Organization) law 
suit naming Microsoft and SCO as co-defendants.  Now that should be 
interesting.  wayne