Last edited Sun Dec 7, 2025, 10:27 AM - Edit history (1)
but I agree with that Torvalds quote from 2009 you dredged up. Unfortunately Microsoft's leaders from that period were all about "exclusion and hatred" and the numerous illegal and destructive anti-trust actions they took to destroy Linux supporting companies and products during those years show that.
I've always thought technology companies should work together for the good of mankind and the consumer. The reason Linux permeates so much of what underpins what we use commonly today is because of that openness in the Linux development model and that is exactly what Linux Torvalds supports and is talking about in your quote. He is talking about those in the overall Free Software community who would adopt the same exclusive approach Microsoft used at the time of that quote 16 or more years ago.
Ultimately the Open Source/Free Software approach won out as events since then has proven. Microsoft and its products have been relegated to mostly the desktop market while other companies who used and supported Linux have become giants. Google, Amazon, Roku, Netflix, Samsung and others dominate the computing arena. Even Microsoft has been forced to change its tune and now uses Linux in many of its products and projects. After Microsoft's early hostility and active engagement in destroying many Linux based companies and products they even actually now contribute to the development of Linux.
Does this mean I personally forgive and trust Microsoft?
Fuck no! They're still the same company that engaged in abusive corporate monopolistic actions that destroyed technology, products and companies that would have benefited consumers and mankind.
I'll continue to personally can't stand Microsoft and its products and also will continue to believe that they are in the same league as corporations like Exxon, Monsanto, Dow Chemical etc. Corporations that put profits and the damage they cause the world and the environment before the good of society and mankind. Because of this no progressive should support or use their products and should make every effort to move away from Microsoft when it comes to their personal computing solutions.
It takes minimal effort to leave Windows and move to Linux. Its the right thing to do. It's as right as not supporting Trump. Its as right as driving a Tesla while claiming to not support Elon Musk and his fascist racist bullshit..
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