RE: [HACKERS] Re: Appended a string of text to each line in a fil e

> I'm sorry, but what exactly is the problem with GPL?

I can't speak for the PostgreSQL folks, who may have their own reasons,
but my take on it is simple: it creates complex legal obligations which
limit use of the software by their very existence. (Even if you consider
those obligations perfectly reasonable and are willing to abide by them,
your boss may disagree. Or the company lawyers may insist that you keep
detailed records of everything you do with the software, in case they ever
have to defend the company against a lawsuit alleging violation of the
GPL. Or upper management may decide that the expense of paying the
company lawyers to read the GPL and investigate its implications isn't
worthwhile, but you can't use the software without their okay, which they
aren't going to give without investigation.)

The GPL is a tool for people with an axe to grind. If all you want to do
is distribute software for free, a simpler licence (or even just placing
the software in the public domain) is preferable.

Henry Spencer
henry(at)zoo(dot)toronto(dot)edu