Re: GPL Mere Aggregation question

[John Hasler]

avesty writes:
> I didn't realize the goal of the GPL was for it to be interpreted and
> implemented differently by each group that uses it... That seems to work
> entirely against the goal of its widespread adoption.

The GPL is a model license, not a law.  How do you expect its authors to
prevent people from coming up with wonky interpretations and trying to
bluff you into giving them money?

> The answers from the ghostscript company are along the lines of "The GPL
> is viral, you can't bundle/distribute it together with anything non GPL
> under any circumstances"...

They are, in my "not a lawyer" opinion, wrong.

> ...yet The GPL FAQ tells me I'm fine.

The FAQ was written with the assistance of lawyers.

> ...I even sent the portions of the FAQ to the company in my initial
> enquiry and was told something to the effect of "no we don't look at it
> like that". Makes things a little difficult.

It would appear that they are difficult people.  You can believe them,
believe us and the FAQ, or consult a lawyer.  Your difficulties are not the
fault of the authors of the GPL, though.  
-- 
John Hasler 
john@dhh.gt.org
Dancing Horse Hill
Elmwood, WI USA