Re: Feature Request: Removal of '-f' Short Option in 'rm' Command

[Dragan Simic]

On 2023-09-25 08:12, Owen Chia wrote:
> Dear GNU Coreutils Team,
>
> I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to propose a feature
> request regarding the 'rm' command in GNU Coreutils. Specifically, I
> would like to suggest the removal of the '-f' short option, while
> retaining the '--force' long option.
>
> The rationale behind this proposal stems from the observation that the
> '-f' short option has led to numerous accidental deletions due to its
> ease of use and associated muscle memory. By removing the short option
> and encouraging the use of the longer '--force' option, we can
> mitigate such unintended consequences and promote safer usage of the
> 'rm' command.
>
> I believe that requiring users to type the full long option '--force'
> each time they intend to forcefully remove files or directories would
> serve as an effective safeguard against inadvertent deletions. The
> additional effort involved in typing the longer option will create a
> deliberate pause, allowing users to consciously confirm their intent
> before proceeding with potentially irreversible actions.
>
> By implementing this change, we can prevent accidental data loss and
> promote a culture of cautious file management practices. The
> modification aligns with the principles of user-friendly design and
> prioritizes the safety and integrity of user data.

FWIW, I understand the rationale behind your proposal, but I also 
disagree completely with it.  See, even without "-f" supplied, deleting 
files that require "-f" to be supplied is still possible by hitting "y" 
at the displayed "are you sure" prompt.  The next step in improving the 
safety may be to require "yes" to be typed at the prompt, etc.  It may 
continue that way even further, which would be rather pointless.  Even 
further, "-r" is even more dangerous than "-f", so we may want to remove 
it as well, etc.  I hope you see the futility of such efforts.

See, rm(1) is like a chainsaw.  A great tool, but requires very careful 
use, and it should stay that way, IMHO.

> I kindly request the GNU Coreutils Team to consider this proposal for
> the 'rm' command. I understand that any changes to a widely used
> utility like Coreutils require careful consideration and testing. I am
> available to provide further insights, conduct additional testing, or
> assist in any way necessary to support the implementation of this
> feature.
>
> Thank you for your attention to this matter, and I look forward to
> your response. Your efforts in maintaining and improving the GNU
> Coreutils project are greatly appreciated.
>
> Sincerely,
> Owen Chia
> aptx945@gmail.org