FW: FW: Qt and the GPL

[John Cowan]

Nelson Rush wrote:
 
> Also, there is no legal distinction between dynamic and static linking, so
> the issues are the same for both.

In principle, no.  But static linking is often done by the distributor of
a program, whereas dynamic linking is invariably done by the person executing
the program.  In the latter case, de minimis and first-sale issues arise:
technically, scribbling marginal notes in your copy of a book is making a derivative
work, but as long as you do not distribute it, a copyright lawsuit against you
will not get far.

The practical use of this is that Trent may write a program under the GPL, and
Alice may license Bob to use some of her proprietary software that is meant to be
linked to Trent's program.  Bob is creating a derivative work and is technically
in violation of the GPL, but as long as he does not distribute the executable,
Trent has little or no case.

-- 
There is / one art                   || John Cowan <jcowan at reutershealth.com>
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