Re: [Patents] Re: Patented NSA-Linux

[PILCH Hartmut <phm@a2e.de>]

> > They can also create a free kernel patch that creates a perfectly
> > stable interface to the external patented calculation rule. In that case,
> > they could effectively make use of Linux while at the same time preventing
> > a free development of Linux-based systems.
>
> But kernel deveopers considere such a "gpl hook for proprietary stuff"
> patch a circumvention device. So besides not accepting it in mainstream
> kernel, it's also considered copyright violation when done by a
> distributor (but not when done by the user).

Circumvention Device?

Wow.

It seems that we now need DMCA in order to be able to enforce the GPL in
critical cases.

Or is this also possible with traditional copyright law?

What about systems where no "gpl hook for proprietary stuff" is needed ?

Would perhaps the use of the Linux kernel by a proprietary system for
purposes of circumventing the GPL anti-patent provisions already
constitute a copyright violation?  Where does this logic end?

-- 
Hartmut Pilch, FFII & Eurolinux Alliance              tel. +49-89-12789608
Protecting Innovation against Patent Inflation       http://swpat.ffii.org/
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