MySQLdb install vs. "setuptools"

[Antoine Pitrou]

On Sun, 30 May 2010 10:10:00 -0700
John Nagle <nagle at animats.com> wrote:
> 
>      Actually, a "built" but "uninstalled" Python works fine.
>  If it
> didn't, "make test" wouldn't work.

That's a completely unrelated thing. The main reason "make test" works
with an uninstalled Python is simply so that the core developers' life
is easier. It doesn't mean all Python functionalities work in that
context.

>      On the other hand, options to "./configure" apparently don't work
> right in Python 2.6 through 3.x.  "--libdir" and "--bindir" don't actually
> do anything.

You can use "--prefix" instead, it works.

>      The real problem here remains the unnecessary use of "setuptools".

No, again, the real problem is just that you are trying to install
modules for an uninstalled Python.
You may hate setuptools with a passion, but it's unconstructive and
useless to put the blame on it without any solid argument.
Do yourself a favour: pass the proper options to "./configure", and
install Python.

Regards

Antoine.