The main difference between free software
and proprietary software is not
in its form nor in its functionality.
The main difference describes
the mentality behind the software.
Software is an idea,
an intellectual creation
like music, literature, or a recipe.
Proprietary software resembles
an appetizing factory baked cake;
well presented in a well kept package
and with a delightful scent.
But if we want to see
the ingredients that it's made from,
where are the ingredients?
The cake turns out to be very appetizing,
but we cannot see its ingredients,
so it does not inspire much confidence.
Also, it can pose a problem.
People with special needs will not know
if the product adapts to their needs.
We decided to speak with the business
of our proprietary software cake.
It's necessary that they publicize
the composition of the cake.
The man that answers our phone call
does not seem too pleased.
He says that he cannot put the ingredients
of the cake on the package
because other businesses
could copy their cakes.
It took a lot of work to create
and improve their recipe.
They need to protect it.
It seems like this business relies
too much on its own recipe
to take care of other people's needs.
Free software functions differently.
It's more like the pie recipe
that grandma makes.
Grandma likes to cook
and make pie for herself and her family.
Some of her grandchildren
also like to cook,
so grandma gives them her pie recipe.
Then each one at their home makes a pie
and shares it with friends.
But the pies are no longer the same.
Each one of them slightly modifies
the recipe to adapt it to their needs.
The next day that they get together
at grandma's house,
each one has a new recipe to share.
Even one of the grandsons
that has a bakery decided to use one
of the recipes to make pies
at his business.
The next day that they get together,
he will also have a new recipe to share.
Free software is about cooperation.
Free software is about sharing.
Free software produces maximum benefit
with minimum effort.
Free software grows
and improves very rapidly.
thanks to the contributions
of its community.
Free software is logical.