Microsoft ponders open-source database

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Semantic gobbledygook

Both Stallman and Raymond have tried to tie me up in semantic knots, and my opinion is that Our Profession (programming prostitution) is particularly prone to semantic hair-splitting due to the tight logic (and semantic precision) required by computer systems.

This is open source in the sense that people have access to source code which they can use in development. Granted, that might be only one sliver in the totem pole of open source defined by the gods on mount olympus (or wherever Stallman/Raymond et al. call home), but like I said, this is a UTILITARIAN conception of open source, not one powered by cappucino-fueled lawyers.

It is the stuff I, as a programmer, care about. I'm not trying to fork SQL Server, or use it to make derivative products. I just want to use the bloody thing, and be able to track down errors better when they happen. Shared source does that, which is why I call it the utilitarian open source. It gives you the stuff that fulfills 99% of what people, if they ditched the religious elements of their open source enthusiasm, really care about.

Posted by: John Carroll   Posted on: 02/23/05 You are currently: a Guest | Members login | Terms of Use

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