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Source Code: Difference between revisions
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Thus, let's define a criterion for knowing when source code is mandatory: | Thus, let's define a criterion for knowing when source code is mandatory: | ||
* '''When the work or part of it is generated by computation from a modifiable structured form (e.g. textual), this modifiable structured form is called ''source code''. It must be made available to recipients of the work.''' | * '''When the work or part of it is generated by computation from a modifiable structured form (e.g. textual), this modifiable structured form is called ''source code''. It must be made available to recipients of the work.''' | ||
==Transitivity== | ==Transitivity== | ||
Of course, the source code must satisfy the freedoms of free content as well. | Of course, the source code must satisfy the freedoms of free content as well. | ||
Therefore, by recursion, our definition is not weaker than the one in the GNU GPL | Therefore, by recursion, our definition is not weaker than the one in the GNU GPL | ||
Revision as of 06:16, 3 May 2023
Definition
Source code is a delicate question to tackle in the broad context of free contents. For example, the GNU GPL defines it as "the preferred form of the work for making modifications to [the work]". Indeed, source code is of primary importance for many kinds of works (especially software).
But there are also situations where the idea of source code appears irrelevant or even meaningless. Consider a digital recording of a modern rock concert. How do we define "source code" ? No symbolic or textual transcription of the concert will be able to describe exactly (so as to reproduce accurately) the manner in which the guitarist picked the strings of his instruments, the slight variations in pitch or tempo of the singer, etc.
Even if no "source code" can be made available for such a work, it would be counter-productive to qualify it as "non-free" if it satisfies to the other freedoms of free content.
Thus, let's define a criterion for knowing when source code is mandatory:
- When the work or part of it is generated by computation from a modifiable structured form (e.g. textual), this modifiable structured form is called source code. It must be made available to recipients of the work.
Transitivity
Of course, the source code must satisfy the freedoms of free content as well. Therefore, by recursion, our definition is not weaker than the one in the GNU GPL