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Taran--

First, thanks for the comment on my weblog.

Funny thing, though, we are actually saying the same thing. I think that the move to using the GPL for distribution of the Java source is definitely a strategically solid change. Not only will it help Java, it will help with Sun's Linux strategy, too. It normalizes the two, if you will.

Where we differ is in the notion that the GPL is free; that the GPL allows you to own your modifications to Sun's code. It quite explicitly does not. Sure, you could "hoard your source" (as a friend puts it), but that isn't really interesting outside of the small set of people running purely internal servers/services, is it?

But as soon as you get beyond that, the GPL quite explicitly limits exactly how you can use your modifications. And, therefore, the GPL is not a "free license" in that it quite explicitly limits freedom.

Now, do not misinterpret my words. I do not disagree with the GPL. Not at all. Actually, I think Sun's use of the GPL is quite brilliant. It guarantees that anything useful that happens to the source will either be shared or will generate revenue for Sun in the form of custom licensing.

A win-win situation it would seem.