Lecture on Richard Stallman and Linguistic Quirks

Introduction

• Richard Stallman has unique personality traits, especially with language.
• Words mean what he decides, ignoring common usage.
• Example: "Free software" (misleading term).
  • Commonly means "free of charge".
  • Stallman's definition: "freedom respecting".

GNU’s List: Words to Avoid or Use with Care

• 54 words listed; will discuss a few examples.
• Aim: Clarify confusing or loaded terms.

Discussion on Specific Words

Ad Blocker

• GNU's suggestion: "Surveillance Protection" for GNU IceCat.
• Argument: Ad blockers also block trackers.
• Better term: "Tracker Blocker" (more general and understood).

Alternative

• Issue: Refers to free software as an alternative to proprietary.
• Argument: Assumes all alternatives are legitimate and beneficial.
• Counterpoint: "Alternative" simply means another option.

Asset

• Misconception: Published works as assets = only commercial value.
• Clarification: "Asset" also means valuable or useful in various contexts (personal, educational, etc).

BSD Style License

• Agreement with Stallman: Clarify specific licenses (BSD, GPL, etc).
• Avoid general terms like "BSD-style".

Closed Software

• Term criticized for grouping free software with open source.
• Suggested terms: "Non-free" or "Proprietary".
• Issue with "Non-free": Can be misunderstood (e.g., implying cost).
• More precise term: "Proprietary".

Cloud Computing

• Critique: Marketing buzzword with no clear meaning.
• Includes multiple concepts (SaaS, renting servers, accessing servers).
• Better practice: Specify the exact scenario instead of using "cloud computing".

Copyright Owner

• Prefer "Copyright Holder".
• Argument: Copyright is a state-granted privilege, not a natural right.
• Personal note: Ownership concepts depend on power and enforcement.

Creator

• Term "creator" seen as elevating authors' moral standing.
• Counterpoint: Term is watered down, interchangeable with "author".

Digital Goods

• Confusion: Identifying digital goods with physical goods.
• Issue of manufacturing: Digital copying has minimal but existing costs.
• Ambiguity in defining "authorship" and its relevance to digital assets.

Conclusion

• Potential further discussions on other terms (e.g., FOSS, freely available, freeware).
• Support and contact information for further interest.

Acknowledgments

• Thanks to supporters and audience.
• Information on other content channels and platforms.