[Wlug] Awesome article about Windows v. Linux in the marketplace

[Desdinova]

On 8/16/07, Eric Martin <freak4uxxx at gmail.com> wrote:
> I found this on either digg or slashdot.  It's a really good article and I
> agree with most of it.  People won't even consider GNU/Linux while they can
> still get a copy of XP for free from a buddy.

I think that's kind of silly, they won't consider Linux because it
doesn't run *foo*.  Not because they can get windows for "free."  The
people who would actually want a pirated copy of windows, system
builders, nerds, *us*, are well-equipped to make that leap or not.
The people that FOSS/Linux folks keep pitching too, everyone else,
already has a legit copy installed on their new prebuilt, or goes and
buys one at Staples.  The community as a whole really needs to stop
trying to degrade every other choice and extol the virtues of what
they've got.  You attract more bees with honey.

Smear tactics are for politicians.  I know some (many?) FOSS advocates
are politically motivated but, trust me, that aforementioned everyone
else doesn't care.  Maybe they should, maybe they shouldn't, but they
certainly don't now.

> That's why I tell people that
> I won't support their pirating of software; and pitch FOSS at every turn to
> them.  http://tlug.jp/articles/Windows_Is_Free  Give it a
> read, it might spur some good conversations tonight.

I agree with your stance on piracy but I'd submit that that audience
has already made their choice.  I suppose I shouldn't really comment
because I'm not a politico; I have no larger cause nor ill-will for
windows.  I use the tool that works for the job at hand.  On the other
hand, maybe that brings a little subjectivism to the evangelicals. ;)

Wish I could've made tonight's meeting.
Take care,
James