GNU Philosopy & 'Free' Software


Richard Matthew Stallman is an American software freedom activist and computer programmer.


In September 1983, he launched the GNU Project  to create a free Unix-like operating system, and has been the project's lead architect and organizer.


With the launch of the GNU Project, he initiated the free software movement; in October 1985 he founded the Free Software Foundation. (ref: wikipedia)



Richard Stallman defines 'Free' in the 'Free Software' as follows:

• Free Software Respects the User's Freedom
• Free as in 'Free Speech' and not as in 'Free Beer'

There are 4 freedoms that characterise any software released as 'Free Software' or under the GNU license.

1) Freedom-0:
To run the program as you see fit.
Have control your own computer.
(If you don't have source code, you have no control)

2) Freedom-1
To help yourself to study the source code,
and change it to do what you want
(Adapt the Software)

3) Freedom-2
To help your neighbour by distributing copies to others
This is necessary on ethical & moral grounds
Take control of your computer collectively
(psycho-social resource)

4) Freedom-3
To help build your community
To publish a modified version so others can benefit
from your contributions with modified code

These GNU 'Free Applications' also create a 'Free Market' for paid commercial services such as:

• those who provide training,
• customise applications,
• deploy as hosted services,
• manage hosted applications,
• providing software upgrade supports and
• Technical / Consultancy support.

The 'End-User' has the freedom to choose appropriate Commercial Support as and when he needs such services from others in the GNU community.