Google is Violating LGPL Source Code

[Max Horn]

Am 07.04.2009 um 13:01 schrieb mp:

>
> Hi, - just a request for clarification, pardon me if I am off the  
> wall here:
>
> In general, unless I misunderstand the exchange here, it seems to me
> that Google (and possibly LMCO?) are looking for, discussing ways in
> which to _avoid_ releasing source code. In other words, _not_working
> with the spirit of the F/LOSS movements, but taking whatever they can,
> whenever they can, and then using it in non-free, closed source  
> projects.
>
> If this is indeed the case, notwithstanding the letter of the "law",
> then it is not exactly a sign of cooperation, but merely "legal  
> theft", or?
>
> If this is not the case, please apologise my ignorance.

I think this is clearly not the case! In my understanding, Google is  
using LGPL software in full compliance with the LGPL here. At least in  
the way I and many other OSS developers interpret the LGPL section  
6(b), both in letter in spirit. Although Allan Hardy seems to disagree  
with it

Anyway, I would be deeply surprised if the developers of JFreeChart  
and WebKit (the software in question here) would not agree with me  
here (only way to find out would be asking them).

So, let's not start spreading FUD.

Bye,
Max