Free Software
The nonfree program controls the users, and the developer controls the program; this makes the program an instrument of unjust power.
What is Free software?
"Free software" means software that respects user's freedom and community.
Roughly, it means that the users have the freedom to run, copy, distribute, study, change and improve the software.
Roughly, it means that the users have the freedom to run, copy, distribute, study, change and improve the software.
Thus, "free software" is a matter of liberty, not price.
To understand the concept, you should think of "free" as in "free speech", not as in "free beer". Read more
Why Open Source misses the point of Free Software
We prefer the term “free software” because, once you have heard that it refers to freedom rather than price, it calls to mind freedom. The word “open” never refers to freedom.
The terms “free software” and “open source” stand for almost the same range of programs. However, they say deeply different things about those programs, based on different values. The free software movement campaigns for freedom for the users of computing; it is a movement for freedom and justice. By contrast, the open source idea values mainly practical advantage and does not campaign for principles. This is why we do not agree with open source, and do not use that term. Read more