Thread by @gstarwind

Once upon a time, the F in #FOSS meant "Free" as in "freedom". Nowadays some of the developers are ascribing instead to some different political theories (which is fine) and perceive FOSS as a way to advance a politcal view or agenda (*not* fine). 1/

In fact, some argue that software should not be used if there are moral or ethical issues, forgetting for example the legal issues around the JSON license (what does "not for evil" mean?). But, to me, it seems that some developers *hate* the idea of freedom. 2/

It looks like they have issues with how people use their software, even though the license perfectly allows them to do so. Yes, some people will use your software for stuff that is displeasing, sometimes illegal, sometimes even vile.
3/

Ultimately, whatever reason you develop software and FOSS for, once it is in the hands of the users, as long as the license is upheld, you, as a developers, have absolutely *zero* say in how it used. And before you say anything, I develop and developed FOSS myself. 4/

All this babbling about specific "ethics issues" is about pushing the developers' own view on things to the users or other fellow developers. As I tend towards free speech absolutism, I don't mind if you hold such views. I don't agree with them, but it's my problem. 5/

I mind when such things are pushed onto others as the "true right way" or the "moral" way. But more importantly, this has nothing to do with software. You might develop it with a vision, but others can follow, diverge, or reject it outright. 6/

That's freedom for you, and true diversity of viewpoints. If you think FOSS allows you to create your clique of likely-minded people only... well, you're going to get disappointed.
Please spare me the "FOSS is political" mantra: I've seen already it is selectively applied. 7/

In the end, again, don't be surprised if there are people who push back. As a developers, you do whatever you want with the development of the software itself. But you have no right to dictate or suggest what others may do with it (save for the license). 8/8