Slashdot: Why Linux Won't Ever Be Mainstream

Tim O'Reilly
O'Reilly Network

July 18, 2001

Rob Malda's editorial on the harmful side-effects of the flames directed at those who want to be part of the open source movement, but don't necessarily toe the line drawn by its most outspoken partisans, is a must read for anyone who cares about the long-term acceptance of Linux and other open source programs. I don't agree with Rob's conclusion--I think the partisans can grow up--but I heartily second his assessment of the problem and his call for greater civility. I've been concerned with this issue leading up to the Mundie-Tiemann debate at OScon next week.

Tim O'Reilly [ http://www.oreillynet.com/pub/au/27 ] is founder and CEO of O'Reilly & Associates and an activist for Internet standards and for open source software.

03:00 PM