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Ask Slashdot: Choosing the Right Open Source License

Posted by samzenpus on from the best-tool-for-the-job dept.

NicknamesAreStupid writes: I need to choose an open source license. I am developing an open source iOS application that use a significant number of other open source projects which, in turn, use a number of different open source licenses such as MPL/GPL, MIT, and BSD. I am also using sample code from Apple's developer site, which has their own terms of use. The code dependencies are such that my code would not be of much use without theirs. If this project is used, then it would be nice to pick a license that best fits in with this mashup. I am interested in maintaining the freedom of my code but do not want to create a catch-22 or make life hard for people who need to use this project for personal use or profit. My inclination is to use MIT's, as I have done so before. I asked an IP lawyer about this matter, and she replied (pro bono), "it probably doesn't matter." Of course, that advice was worth every penny. Moving away from legal issues and looking at this from a social perspective, which license would appeal most and offend least? I thought about no license but was warned (pro bono), "If you do not, then someone else may." Any suggestions?

4 of 171 comments (clear)

  1. If you're using GPL code, you have no choice by msobkow · · Score: 3, Interesting

    If you're using GPL code, you have no choice but to release your code under the GPL as well.

    --
    I do not fail; I succeed at finding out what does not work.
    1. Re:If you're using GPL code, you have no choice by Sarten-X · · Score: 5, Interesting

      Read the license from the perspective of your users. If a later GPL version adds new protections against software patents, API copyrights, or whatever else the legal system dreams up, the users can opt to follow the terms of that license. If, in a moment of collective insanity, the FSF publishes a less-free GPL, the user can opt to use the earlier version your software was originally released under.

      That clause actually ensures that the current version establishes a minimum set of rights.

      --
      You do not have a moral or legal right to do absolutely anything you want.
  2. No GPL by Sigvatr · · Score: 2, Interesting

    Please do not license it under an L/GPL license. There's a lot of software I would like to use, but am not legally allowed to because it uses a GPL license. It sucks.

  3. Unlicense by darkain · · Score: 4, Interesting

    Unlicense, and done. http://unlicense.org/