ethical ubuntu

[Jack Wasey]

baza wrote:
> I use Linux for a number of reasons, the main one being the software is
> free and in free beer for the most part. Not having any money this
> allows me to do all the IT stuff I need.
> 
> What I don't really understand is why is it unethical to use proprietary
> software?
> 
> Baz

I suggest you read the spec which is about giving information and encouraging 
the user to make a decision whatever the answer. I just want people to be aware 
and to consider.

My main point is that non-free is not intrinsically unethical, but some people 
may prefer to avoid it. How can they avoid it if they are encouraged to install 
it without any warning?

There are more pressing reasons why software (free or not) could be unethical. A 
very simple example might be an (freeware? open-source?!) virus which posts your 
bank details on a web site. This is not all _that_ far from Skype, MS, etc. 
divulging your private conversations to whichever government, especially if you 
happen to be a pro-democracy campaigner.

That really is non-free.