On 10/6/06, Jack J. Woehr <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
> Free and open software is a means to an end, rather than the
> sole end unto itself for OLPC.
>
> I was totally stunned by this admission. "morally bankrupt", as Bob
> says, is exactly what is going on.
Hmm, sounds like you are saying that abstract goal of unlimited
software freedom is
a higher goal than providing access to modern technology to
disadvantaged children in
3rd-world countries.
If the real concern is for *disadvantaged children* in third world
countries then giving them a laptop is the most ridiculous idea ever
orginated!
Some time back I saw a cartoon. One of the 3rd world countries blasted
their nuclear bomb and was proud of it. Proud that they were in par
with the others in the West. While their people were still begging and
starving in the streets and villages.
The cartoon showed a poor beggar sitting on the street with torn
clothes with the beggars basin to reveive a missile sent to it.
In the third world the basic necissities are food, water, clothing,
shelter, medical care etc.
Disadvantaged children could care less about a stupid laptop when they
have had no meal for a week and are tired of the sun while watching
their siblings dying of cholera.
Getting a laptop to a child for low cost seems to be a noble idea on
the outside.
add a *3rd-world country* phase and you get a more polished *charity
painted/noble* image.
I don't think OLPC it that great!. It is another form of business.
They have seen a market. They want to reach it. thats all!
Mostly people who applaude such endeavours *do not have any idea* of
the issues of the third world countries.
I am not angry Jack.
But When I find people *over nobleizing* at the expense of the 3rd
world countries I think I need to say this.
Kind Regards
Siju
