Why Open Source and Give Software Away?

Why is open source done? The developer gives up all his code and potential for profit from the code.

[JasonOickle]

In my experience with an open source project, donations are extremely rare, everyone just wants everything for free.

[Vylpes]

A piece of software being open source isn't the deciding factor for me, like if software A is proprietary and has more features which I need and software B is open source and doesn't have them then I'm going to pick software A. However, if both software A and B I would use the same feature set across them both then I'd pick the open source version

[eufrozinak]

I don't think the people who say everything should be open source say that because they want everything for free. The main reason people want software to be open source is to be able to make sure that it isn't malware and that they can trust the tools they use.

[mehdiyahiacherif]

what i like about open source is transparency, and being sure that my data / privacy is safe
i like some closed source software
but sometimes i see them as scam with violating some privacy or charging overexagerated amount of money for support and licence, i can list ORACLE and SAP for the "support"
and windows for privacy

but for example Redhat and Suse are doing good imo,
and a lot of web services that charge some money for the hosting are fine too
even some small programs with one purchase and not a lifetime subscription are good

[amrzakaria]

Thanks, mixing between open and closed source can help a lot.

[donaldmickunas]

Hey Chris,

I like your position on this issue. Great video. You still ROCK!

[jesse]

Another great video Chris; I agree with your assessment, conclusions and opinions on this topic.

[dingokidneys]

Working on open source projects also allow an inexperienced developer to build up a "portfolio" of work that they've done that they can then show to a prospective employer who, because it's open source, can validate what they are claiming. It's a really powerful way for a young person to get their foot in the door and there are so many projects out there that there's always some way to contribute and get brownie points for.

[vladislavkaras]

Thanks for the video!

Now it is more clare for me!

[nekrosis]

*Things that need/should to be FOSS:*
-Any sort of library/Framework in software development
-Packaging, Compiling and Codec Software
-Anything even remotely concerning with security, encryption, cryptography
-Anything using Blockchain Technology

*Things that can't realistically be FOSS:*
-Anti-Piracy/Anti-Tampering Protections
-Anti-Cheating Software/ Netcode of Online Games
-Software running on weapons (ICBM, Targeting Systems, Radar Systems, Fighter Jet Autopilots ...)
-Incredibly Expensive to develop Software (big Neural Networks, AAA Games, Civilian Rocket Software, Manufacturing Maschine Software)

[bennyprfane]

This is an amazing video! I was wondering about so many of these things, and it's great to hear some fundamental questions about open source development answered!

[Zundfolge]

Obviously both open and closed source have their advantages and disadvantages and I'll gladly pay for a closed source program if it meets my needs. I also don't mind closed source forks of open source projects (Chrome is a good example). And while I'm the last person to ever say "there oughtta be a law" I do believe that all social media software and algorithms should be required to be open source just for the sake of protecting the public from whatever nefarious crap Big Tech (and the CCP) are up to.

[itzamedave]

Love your work much appreciated and love the updated studio looks great 👍👍

[techmentormaria]

I learned so much from reading open source code and contributing to it early in my career which led me to where I'm at right now (Eng Manager at FAANG) so I'm very much PRO open source.

[alexeisavrasov]

Hi Chris (or anyone), a small question that's been bugging me. Your video about Obsidian led me to start using it; great program, thanks.
I'm just curious because it's the first program I've come across that doesn't seem to need a "save" button...does it save automatically? does it somehow not need to save because 'markup'? what's going on?
I still can't help pressing Ctrl-S, but wondering why it's different.

[crisbalgreece]

Open source because is open..free. anyone can see what's going on and make his changes..God save Dev's..

[muddyexport]

I like your logic. From my point of view, it seems the closed environment would be more prone to be highly focused and costly in terms of hardware required to develop new and unique innovations that need a monetary return to stay afloat. Voluntary donations are not always enough as I am sure you know.  
However, I am an advocate of the open-source concept. Where would the server farms be without Linux? Your Windows debloat has added more service time to my aging Windows machine that I have to keep for various programs that 40+ years of muscle memory demands. (I also use the Apple ecosystem.). AKA older than dirt nerd...

[radui]

Amazing video! What do you think about Apple way, apple software and OS?

[chromerims]

4:53 --- sir Chris, you and your background look far, far better in this setup and camera angle at 4:53 👍 than any of your other steaming layouts. I miss you doing it predominantly this way. May I cordially advise that whereas your other setups are cluttered and distracting?
Btw, excellent video today 🔥 👍
(Hope your gym sesh's are continuing in 2023!)
Kindest regards, neighbours and friends.

[frankybats]

great vid, programming feels like a foreign world to me - enjoyed your analysis