On Mon, 2012-01-09 at 14:24 +0530, Yogesh wrote: > > Meaning : We are not interested who pirates propitiatory software > > Neither am I. But no one can do anything about it. I'm just saying > that's what happens. Current state of affairs. I'm not giving software > piracy my approval. I'm merely stating things as they are.
I am afraid you have not understood the issue. A few points: 1. Most users do not own the computers they work on. They operate computers owned by their employers. So they do not have a choice over the software. If they are lucky to work with TNEB, they get to use linux. This covers the vast majority of students and employees in bigger enterprises. It also covers the vast majority of programmers. (and probably most of the members of this list). For these people, the software is paid for, so 'piracy' is not an issue. 2. Some people have computers of their own. The vast majority are not aware that they have a choice of operating systems. This ignorance is created by a carefully planned and well financed campaign by Microsoft. Microsoft realises that this sector is not the main revenue generating sector for it and so it encourages piracy. In their view it is better if the users use pirated windows than use linux. All dealers are instructed to try and sell legal software, failing which they are told to install 450 rupees windows. I recently bought a laptop which came with linpus linux, and had to fight with the dealer to prevent him from installing a 'real' OS for 450 rupees. Microsoft does not raid individuals and concerns below a certain size. It also turns a blind eye to smaller training institutes. Most people are not even aware that they are using illegal software. 3. There are a few people who are aware that they are using illegal software. They belong in jail. (they are also the loudest proponents of the idea that windows is better than linux). -- regards Kenneth Gonsalves _______________________________________________ ILUGC Mailing List: http://www.ae.iitm.ac.in/mailman/listinfo/ilugc
