Archive of UserLand's first discussion group, started October 5, 1998.
Re: Do applications differ from libraries?
Author: Eric Kidd Posted: 9/9/2000; 12:16:07 PM Topic: Guido and Richard Msg #: 21078 (In response to 21074) Prev/Next: 21077 / 21079
Really? What's the difference? It's all computer code, isn't it?Well, there used to a differnce between applications and libraries. :-) Up until about 1990, or so, the distinction made sense.
An application was a stand-alone tool, written for users. A library was a modular component, written for developers. Of course, the arrival of component software changed everything.
Here's a handy rule of thumb: You can always ask a developer what his or her license means. And if you think the developer is smoking crack, you can ask your lawyer.
Up until the DeCSS & MP3 cases, I would have said that licenses were restrained by fair use, contract law, and the Consitution. But it's increasingly apparent that certain judges don't care.
These days, you challenge a license at your own risk. So maybe it's best to talk to the author instead.
Cheers,
Eric
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