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Software is very close to math. Most people would agree that math should not be sold or licensed. How to add numbers is not something that should be paid for. I
by usr1106 5y ago
Software is very close to math. Most people would agree that math should not be sold or licensed. How to add numbers is not something that should be paid for. If actually someone made their living by adding numbers we would probably agree they should be paid. So the programmer should be paid, the hardware should be paid, but the software not?
Doesn't seem to work. Exactly like people expect everything to be free on the internet. Surveillance capitalism is one way to overcome the paradox. Not that I personally like it, but it seems to work.
- WJW 5y agoSince everybody learns basic math in school these days it has ceased to be something you can really charge for, similar to how it would be very difficult to charge for a software package that only copies files on a single computer or something like that. Applied math absolutely gets paid for, but it is a far cry from "adding numbers". Think new optimization techniques for a factory logistics package and things like that.
- goodpoint 5y ago> Doesn't seem to work It worked very well when it came to do all the foundational work for developing semiconductors, early computers, fiber optic, GPS, GSM, particle physics, CD/DVDs, CCDs, spread spectrum radio, solar panels... Research benefiting society needs was paid by society. It was paid by taxes.