"How long until Microsoft is allowed to sue OpenOffice.org because the "functional structure" of OpenOffice Writer infringes upon the proir art of Microsoft Word? "
Maybe not long...but for different reasons? What would happen if Microsoft made an open version of office that had limited functionality like only viewing files or something. Then the logical name would be OpenOffice. If they did this, then would they have a suit against OpenOffice.org? They've had Office for longer than OpenOffice has had it's name. It's like Java could sue me for making a technology called JavaGL. It seems like it would be a java product, but it wouldn't be. Sounds similar to me.
I don't want to debate the legality of the downloading issue. I just want to point out one thing. The sharing of files ( programs specifically ) acts as a leveling agent for people of different wealths for they're ability to gain computer skills beyond the basics. It used to be that you had to have money to use a computer. Now computers are relatively cheap. With a computer and cheap internet connection, you can download all the programs that anyone else has (almost). Personally, I don't download files, but I have "a friend" who does. He gained experience with *ahem* popular graphics software and other software that gained skills necessary for competing in today's workforce...especially with the crappy economy right now. Make your own judgements about whether this is right/wrong or good/bad or an necessary/unnecessary evil.
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"How long until Microsoft is allowed to sue OpenOffice.org because the "functional structure" of OpenOffice Writer infringes upon the proir art of Microsoft Word? "
Maybe not long...but for different reasons? What would happen if Microsoft made an open version of office that had limited functionality like only viewing files or something. Then the logical name would be OpenOffice. If they did this, then would they have a suit against OpenOffice.org? They've had Office for longer than OpenOffice has had it's name. It's like Java could sue me for making a technology called JavaGL. It seems like it would be a java product, but it wouldn't be. Sounds similar to me.
Greatest thing since sliced bread!
pork
I don't want to debate the legality of the downloading issue. I just want to point out one thing. The sharing of files ( programs specifically ) acts as a leveling agent for people of different wealths for they're ability to gain computer skills beyond the basics. It used to be that you had to have money to use a computer. Now computers are relatively cheap. With a computer and cheap internet connection, you can download all the programs that anyone else has (almost). Personally, I don't download files, but I have "a friend" who does. He gained experience with *ahem* popular graphics software and other software that gained skills necessary for competing in today's workforce...especially with the crappy economy right now. Make your own judgements about whether this is right/wrong or good/bad or an necessary/unnecessary evil.