[Bug 433799] Re: core R package in universe nags me to install proprietary software at every start-up

[Andy Choens]

I think it is Canonical's right to enter into agreements with other
companies to distribute their software (regardless of the license). That
being said I think it is equally important to respect the end-users. I
don't like the adware and I especially don't like the fact that the
extensions are not clearly labeled as proprietary.

If this product provides a useful service to someone and they are
willing to work within the constraints of the license, I think they
should use it. That being said, end-users should be told up front when
they are installing non-free software. This message need not be
derogatory, but it should make it clear that the license is proprietary.

I would also like to offer a couple of suggestions here.

1) I think something like the App Center is a better place to position
advertisements for related products. A well designed App Center SHOULD
help me find new Free and non-Free software that is related to or
similar other applications that I am interested in or have already
installed. For example, if I searched for R in the App Center, I think
it is reasonable to get a list of base packages that include PSPP,
Gretl, and Revolution R, and a few dozen other R extensions. If I am
interested in R, it is reasonable to assume I may be interested in these
other products as well. As long as the App Center clearly displays the
licenes (GLP, Apache, LGPL, Proprietary, etc.), end users can make a
well-informed decsion regarding what software to use.

2) I always thought Java's approach to installation was a good one. The
old non-free Java installation made you accept or decline the EULA. This
way I was given the opportunity to review the license and decide for
myself if I wanted to use it or not. I think this is a good way to
install other non-free software such as the Microsoft core fonts, Flash,
etc. Make it easy, but also give end-users the opportunity to see the
license before installing the software when the license is not a Free
Software license.

3) Remove or at least minimize the advertisement for the stuff in R.

-- 
core R package in universe nags me to install proprietary software at every start-up
https://bugs.launchpad.net/bugs/433799
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