Messages in this thread | | | From | "David Schwartz" <> | Subject | RE: The GPL: No shelter for the Linux kernel? | Date | Fri, 22 Sep 2006 13:04:45 -0700 |
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> Isn't all this complete nonsense considering that the COPYING file in > the kernel contains the following? > > <-- snip --> > > Also note that the only valid version of the GPL as far as the kernel > is concerned is _this_ particular version of the license (ie v2, not > v2.2 or v3.x or whatever), unless explicitly otherwise stated. > > <-- snip -->
First of all, I want to congratulate the Linux kernel developers on getting it right. I never would have imagined a near-consensus could have emerged on an even stronger position than my own.
Second, I should point out again that it is unfortunate that Linus did not retain for himself the exclusive right to modify the Linux kernel license. If some real problem ever does emerge in the GPLv2 as applies to Linux, it will be extremely difficult to resolve.
This is probably going to be controversial, but Linus should seriously consider adding a clause that those who contribute to the kernel from now on consent to allow him to modify the license on their current contributions and all past contributions, amending the Linux kernel license as appropriate. This would at least begin to reduce this problem over the next few years, leaving fewer and fewer people with claim to less and less code who would have legal standing to object.
I agree there is no pressing need now and the Linus is unlikely to want to or need to change the Linux kernel license any time soon, but there could be an issue of some kind in the next few years, and it would be nice to start on a solution.
DS
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