This guest column by Bruce Perens describes in plain language how Version 3 modernizes the GPL, while preserving the intent of earlier versions. Additionally, it debunks a few common GPLv3 myths, and suggests how the Linux kernel itself could someday wind up adopting the revised license.

Specifically debunked GPLv3 myths include:

• Requires developers to “give away their keys”
• Incompatible with DRM (digital rights management)
• GPLv2 is “good enough”
• GPLv3 will not “block” Novell/Microsoft type deals
• GPLv3 will divide the open source software community
• Linux will never switch because a license change would be too painful

Click below to read the full guest editorial:

 
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