So I'm a strong believer in gnu/gpl and open source software. If there's a solution that's licensed in a creative commons friendly way, I'm all for it. Most proprietary software is very clearly about restricting features, there are exceptions, but this is the general case.
I don't understand why I have to excuse myself to my friends and associates for not using Windows, Flash, etc... but for some reason I find I have to constantly defend my decision to avoid software I feel is licensed in an 'evil' way.
I don't understand why people cannot admire my resolution, but what kindof responses can I provide that more fully defend and back my decision?

Here's my stock answer:

If they want more than that, they have to ask a follow-up question.

*This was before Linux had a reliable unrar utility.

I think my reply would be something along these lines:

"Certain basic principles are important to me, and one of them is that I maintain ultimate control over MY computer and MY data. This is important enough to me that I'm willing to sacrifice some level of convenience or even the ability to perform certain functions, if necessary."

"Fortunately, Free software provides just about everything that I really need, so I actually have to make very few sacrifices, if any. I'm even richer for it in some ways.

"Now you may have a different opinion, and certainly it's your choice if you decide to place your faith in some proprietary software vendor. For the most part there is little harm in doing so. But remember that these organizations all have their own priorities and interests, which likely do not coincide with yours. There's a long and ever-growing history of people who have put their trust in some external entity, only to have that decision come back to bite them in the end*. So just realize that the choice you make now may ultimately have unexpected consequences."



(* For a perfect example, note that even Linus Torvalds, and Linux itself, have been bitten. See the fiasco with BitKeeper, which forced him to create Git in response.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BitKeeper
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Git_(software) )

More often, I'm asked "what's soo bad about Windows?" kindof things, most people that even know what Linux is, think it's pretty cool, but it's hard to explain to people why I don't dual boot or use one of my boxes as an MS Windows box. I have responses for this, along the lines of "I don't own ms windows, I'm not paying for it, piracy is illegal..." and most often I'm not really able to come out and say that I don't have the time or interest to play the stupid new video game they want me to play.

I use git to keep track of some of my scripts and small programs, I've not really used very many of it's features. I never realized where it came from or why it came about though. Thanks for the links!

Simple really. It is your computer, your choice and needs. If you don't need it or you wont profit from using it you have no real reason to use that specific suggested stuff.

My response is "because I like it better. And I notice I'm not the one having problems on my computer, now am I?"

Yes you can tell all the stuff mentioned above, but what I want to add is,
using open software is the way, I make the world better! By using open software I show my support to this movement, so person in Africa without money at all, but some knowledge, can find computer in garbage and despite that set up machine that suits his needs and can help develop his knowledge, personality, earn money and help others!

but there are so many benefits, already mentioned above:
* full control over your system technically
* independence(in so many ways: mind, software development, money, artistic expressions)
* so good way to expand your knowledge about computer science
and so on and on...

so, even if some open source software lacks some functionality, by using it I simply am better person, and by supporting it, I boost up chances for it to get required functionality or even if my knowledge is enough I CAN ADD FUNCTIONALITY MYSELF(this is what closed source lacks!)!

Because you're in the minority (at least in the desktop space). Most folks don't want to have to think about their computer or what is running on it.

Try to not take it personally.

What I say is, "It is difficult for me to get work done on Windows." And that is true. To me, it's very much a crippled OS.

I also don't invoke subjective terms like "evil" or refer to software licensing in situations like that. Again, most folks just don't care. If you frame it as a moral argument, you generally sound like a wacko, IMO.

Totally agree. If someone questions your personal choices (which are not affecting them), I'd politely explain myself. A couple steps beyond that, I'd politely tell them where to go.

I use what is best for the situation. MS products have a use as well as other commercial products. No man is an island so don't try to be one. But you don't have to explain your life to anyone. That is part of being an adult.

How about: "I like Linux, so I use it. If you want to use some other software, I'm not going to try to stop you. I hope you have an enjoyable, productive experience."

I do think it is wise not to sermonize. That seldom wins friends and does influence people--the wrong way.

A lot of folks think that Linux is some kind of deep dark mystery that only uber geeks can use. Maybe, "it's cheaper, simpler, and easier than [insert name of evil software here]" would be a good short answer.

Unless the questioner is seriously interested in learning the advantages, the debate will be futile.
It's easier to just smile and say "It works for me!"

Hi,

You will find a lot of people with good reason for not driving a Ford but happen to like their Mercedes. You will always find people are always just itching for a fight. You as an adult do not have to defend your position. Sure if the employer requires the use of a specific product then you must go with the flow or just GO.

In casual speak or conversation I would use the mantra of 'it' works, utility and very reliable. Plus it's free!

Personally I've seen the Gnu/Linux vs M$ war all over the place. Unless I'm up for a good discussion then I will just nod my head to someone who attempts to bait me. Then just ignore their reasoning or logic since it is just parroting anyway.

Just be honest and don't beat around the bush. Tell them you like using linux more. PERIOD. No need to give a lecture about linux because they will not care about it.