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I like the GPL. I just don't know how much you can actually enforce it. Also, "don't use my code" is not viral. If you break the MSFT license, you pay them, wh
by pclmulqdq 11mo ago
I like the GPL. I just don't know how much you can actually enforce it.
Also, "don't use my code" is not viral. If you break the MSFT license, you pay them, which is a very well-tested path in courts. The idea of forced public disclosure does not seem to be.
- iso1631 11mo agoHow much do you pay them? If the GPL license didn't exist, and instead you just relying on copyright, then that's an injunction. You have to stop using the code you "stole" and pay reparations. In UK law, if you distribute copyright material in the course of a business you can be facing 10 years in prison and an unlimited fine. Sure you can't get them to agree to the GPL, they could simply stop distributing and then turn up to their stint in prison and massive fine. In reality I suspect they would take the easy way out and comply with the license.
- pclmulqdq 11mo agoYou pay them an amount determined by the court or your settlement, and you also have to stop using the code. This is how everything works. Corporations can't go to prison.
- iso1631 11mo ago> Corporations can't go to prison. A major problem with the western world, total lack of accountability For GPL a court could fine them the value of their company, or settle by releasing the code. A court won't but that's because the system is built to protect moneyed entities over individuals.
- anticensor 11mo agoCorporations can have their business licence temporarily or permanently suspended.
- iso1631 11mo ago10 years in prison is about 15% of a typical life. You could give 15% of the ownership to the aggrieved party.