"Free software" vs. "Open Source" (again) (Re: Why "Open Source" is a dead end *for Ubuntu*)

[Eric Feliksik]

First let me say I think my email's subject was too provoking to leave 
space for any nuance; it probably sounded too harsh. Actually the mail 
was not so much a call to the Ubuntu officials, because that'd probably 
be preaching to the choir.

Matt Zimmerman wrote:
> Is there some published text, or has there been a public statement, which
> you feel expresses such a sentiment on behalf of Ubuntu?
> 

No, no official public text indeed! My mail was more directed to people 
who feel disturbed by those who keep hammering on freedom and ideology. 
To the people who call for pragmatism as a solution.

> The Free Software and Open Source initiatives are two arms of one, broader
> movement toward universally available software developed through global
> collaboration.  I don't agree with your assessment that Ubuntu must "choose
> sides" in order to succeed, because fundamentally, the efforts undertaken in
> Ubuntu will benefit both movements.

I fully agree, Ubuntu should not choose sides. I express my concerns on 
the usage of the 'Open Source' (pragmatic) kind of *promotion* that 
Ubuntu users might choose. I think Ubuntu takes a very balanced approach 
to the issue, and treating the movements as complementing is good. I'm 
not even against the usage of the words 'Open Source', not at all (So 
that's why my subject was actually chosen badly).

My point is that making people use FLOSS by convincing them with 
pragmatic arguments that don't focus on freedom is nice, but it will not 
make them loyal. So don't overestimate the value usage of FLOSS by 
people that don't care for the freedom. Pragmatism is good, but without 
good focus on ideology it's a lot less effective.

Eric