Stallman argues for computing freedom and freedom of choice, but he doesn't
hesitate in ordering people around to fit his vision. If it was up to him, we
would all be back in 1998 with basic HTML and images and light on the
JavaScript usage. I know he was influential for getting the GNU started, but
he hasn't really adapted to the times.
As for this extension, it should be smarter in detecting the license of a
script. For example, someone gave a jQuery reference about how the code
itself lists its license but will be blocked because it doesn't fit
Stallman's personal views on how a license should be linked. If it was
smarter, it would scan the script and look for certain text that would
signify it holding a GPL or GPL compatible license.
This discussion is really one that needs to happen because this script pretty
much breaks most of the internet as it is now. I'm not naive and quite aware
that most companies want to keep their techniques a secret because of the
time invested. It is true that big companies have their best interests in
hand and only care about profit, but to have the FSF try to boss around
everyone because it doesn't fit into its political agenda is just as bad as
Microsoft or Google trying to force its ideals onto the FSF.
Don't get me wrong... if I wrote an application for the internet that I
wanted to share with everyone that served as a tool like StatusNet, then I
wouldn't hesitate to release under the Affero GPLv3. For the other work that
a client pays to have for themselves, I really don't have a choice.
I still think it is wrong to have this extension installed and enabled by
default. I know Linux users want more people to switch from Microsoft and
join their cause while others like being obscure. Breaking the internet for
them isn't the solution. Sorry.
