[CS-FSLUG] Proprietary Software: Capitalism or Greed?

[Don Parris]

Recently, Eben Moglen was quoted as saying that proprietary software wasn't 
really about capitalism, but about greed.  While that sounds good, what is the 
basis for such a statement?  The statement is important because it cuts to 
the heart of the defense of proprietary software.  

This is part of my research for an article, so please consider the possibility 
that I may want to quote you.  Thus, if you will not be able to control your 
emotions in any heated debate that may arise, or you just cannot stomach 
another capitalism vs communism discussion, you might choose to ignore the 
thread. ;-)


The fact that software was free in the beginning does not, in and of itself, 
account for the nature of proprietary software.  However, proprietary 
software does circumvent our fair use rights under copyright law.  For 
example, it would be considered a fair use of Microsoft's software if I 
modified it to run more efficiently, or added new features for my computer.  

I do not believe that capitalism depends on circumventing user's 
freedom/rights in order to thrive.  In fact, it would seem to me that 
capitalism depends on everyone being free to produce and compete.  But is 
this the sole basis for suggesting that proprietary software is about greed?  
And how strong an argument is it?

People who rent or buy houses are nevertheless restricted by HOA (home-owner 
assoc.) regs and landlord-tennant agreements.  You have more freedom if you 
buy a house, but you're far more free if you buy out in the country, away 
from the HOA's.  Thus, many would argue that we trade our freedom/rights 
every day in order to obtain things we want.  They would suggest that 
proprietary software is no different.  What positions would each of you take 
on this argument.  Does circumventing the "fair-use" clause constitute a 
grievous harm against our civil rights?

What other arguments support the claim that proprietary software is about 
greed, not capitalism?  What are the strengths and weaknesses of such 
arguments?  What are your positions on these arguments?  I appreciate your 
time and thoughts in advance.

Don
-- 
DC Parris