Re: [GNU-linux-libre] programs which only use-case is non-free Was: Adding some scummvm

[bill-auger]

On Tue, 25 Apr 2023 21:58:54 -0400 bill-auger wrote:
> without those, distros would likely stop distributing the
> game engine also; so its a "package deal" really

i would like to expand on this point - it has broader implications for the FSDG,
and is a recurring topic of discussion

some have suggested that it conflicts with the "steering toward" guideline,
for an FSDG distro to distribute a program, which only known use-case (other
than hack to it out) is to install or wrap some other non-free program
(flash-player-installer is exemplary) - this is generally considered to be
"steering toward" use of some other non-free program, prohibited per the FSDG

WRT scummvm, there o/c remains the use-case of writing a new game for it; but
that is equivalent, in all aspects but the work-load, to hacking-out specific
bits of some code-base, in order to make it fit the FSDG (eg: someone could
hack flash-player-installer to point at a libre file)

both are possible and common; but neither would fully excuse the "steering
toward" guideline, until indeed some libre replacement exists, for the distro to
"deflect toward" - ie: without the deflection of intention, to distribute
scummvm, is to "steer toward" playing non-free games

this is one of those FSDG grey-areas, for which it would be good to have some
consensus