Open Source Ethics

Muhammad Sarmad Ali

What is Open Source?

• Doesn’t just mean access to source code.

Open SourceAccording to “Open Source Initiative” (OSI):

Distribution of open source software must comply with • Free Distribution.• Source Code.• Derived Works.• Integrity of the Author’s source code.• No discrimination against persons or groups.• No discrimination against field of endeavor.• Distribution of license.• License must not be specific to a product.• License must not restrict other software.• License must be technology neutral.

Free Software

According to “Free Software Foundation” (FSF):

Access to source code is preconditioned.

• Freedom to run the program for any purpose.• Freedom to study how program works and adopt

it to your needs.• Freedom to redistribute copies.• Freedom to improve the program and release

your improvement.

Open Source vs. Closed Source

Richard Stallman from FSF relates open source and closed source as “Freedom” and “Slavery” respectively

Open Source vs. Closed SourceEthical perspective

Open Source favors

• Promotes freedom.• Broader sharing of technology.• Greater empowerment of user and customers.

Open Source vs. Closed SourceEthical perspective

Closed Source favors

• Allows innovation.• Intellectual property is kept intact.

Open Source vs. Closed SourceEthical perspective

Economic Perspective

• Should low production/reproduction cost imply a free product. Why?

• Commodifization