[Python-Dev] License cleanup

Guido van Rossum guido@CNRI.Reston.VA.US
Tue, 14 Sep 1999 19:31:47 -0400


> The BSD-ish license that Python has always used is much more preferable. I
> dislike the regulation of the "Python" name, the requirement to
> prominently discuss modifications made, and the revocation clause. I might
> find other items, but that is from a quick read using Lynx on a tiny
> monitor...

Hm...  We may have to review the regulation of the Python name.  This
made sense in the context of the previous uses of this license
(JPython and Grail) but Python is a different thing -- the name Python 
stands for more than just the implementation.  I'll discuss this with
CNRI's legal team.

I don't see how the other things you mention can be much of a problem
(most Open Source licenses have a revocation clause these days, I
think, and I don't see how discussing the modifications made can be a
problem with open source users).

> Heck, how could people like PPSI, PythonWare, or D.C. truely like that
> license? Each of those companies uses "Python" significantly in their
> marketing and their business. I can certainly state that PPSI will never
> do anything in an official capacity to recognize that license.

How can you say that without consulting with the board?  And I am *on*
that board!  I despise your attitude.

--Guido van Rossum (home page: http://www.python.org/~guido/)