The discussion around the GPL continues with this thoughtful essay on why Mr. Shaw chooses the GPL and why he doesn’t mind when others don’t…
I really don’t care what license people use on their software, it’s their software and bitching at them for the license they choose is offensive. They wrote it, put their blood and sweat into it, and you should be glad that you get the privilege of even seeing it.
His observation reminds me of a personal principle I try to live by: make rules for yourself, not for others. Telling others to do things your way is usually arrogant and always a big waist of time. If you do not believe in the GPL, you may choose any license or contribute to any non-GPL project you wish. It’s a big world out there, with plenty of room for us all.
Disclaimer: there are a few choice pieces of colorful language in the essay, as above.