Andreas Barth <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> schrieb/wrote: > Sorry, but that's not totally true. There was substantial distribution > via modem networks before (e.g. Fido). IMHO this is equivalent to > distribution over internet.
According to German law, a distribution method is only "known" when its economical significance can be evaluated. The idea is to protect authors from granting licences for the exploition of their works below value. The importance of online distribution (and so the value of the right to distribute a software product online) could not have been foretold by looking at BBS networks or at the then use of the Internet. Of course, that law has not been made with Open Source in mind, where authors give up some of the rights without wanting to get something in return. It is based on the idea of strong publishers who rip off poor authors (who don't have a choice if they want to get some money at all). Claus -- http://www.faerber.muc.de
