From Richard Stallman
on the subject of GNU/BSD
Quote:
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Originally Posted by RMS
People sometimes ask whether BSD too is a version of GNU, like GNU/Linux. The BSD developers were inspired to make their code free software by the example of the GNU Project, and explicit appeals from GNU activists helped persuade them, but the code had little overlap with GNU. BSD systems today use some GNU programs, just as the GNU system and its variants use some BSD programs; however, taken as wholes, they are two different systems that evolved separately. The BSD developers did not write a kernel and add it to the GNU system, and a name like GNU/BSD would not fit the situation
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GNU/MacOSX
does[ look nice - but Apple do not fit either, for the same reasons as BSD.
(Do they ship any GNU stuff at all?)
The
principle reasons for including the GNU though involve supporting Software Freedom.
Quote:
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Originally Posted by RMS
When I explain why it's appropriate to call the operating system “GNU/Linux” rather than “Linux”, people sometimes respond this way:
Quote:
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Granted that the GNU Project deserves credit for this work, is it really worth a fuss when people don't give credit? Isn't the important thing that the job was done, not who did it? You ought to relax, take pride in the job well done, and not worry about the credit.
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This would be wise advice, if only the situation were like that — if the job were done and it were time to relax. If only that were true! But challenges abound, and this is no time to take the future for granted. Our community's strength rests on commitment to freedom and cooperation. Using the name GNU/Linux is a way for people to remind themselves and inform others of these goals. |
When I say "gnu-linux" some people respond "gunner-what-a-what?" They demand an explanation. So I get to tell them about the Software Freedom movement. I can preach with impunity because
they asked me to 
Interestingly, the questioners are self-selecting to those people most likely to be receptive to the arguments. So I'm not wasting my breath.
People who do not ask either know already or don't care. People who know have just been signaled as to my politics ... fellow activists have just met a colleague. You can meet a lot of interesting people that way.
Overall, the cost is very small and the rewards great.
