Hacker Newsnew | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submitlogin

Many open source projects have never opted-in to a social movement or ideological pursuit. Software meeting the OSI's definition can unarguably be called "open source" without any other implications of an ill-defined "spirit" which is completely subjective.

If I host a code repo on an otherwise static site, with no ability to contact the author or engage in a community, it is still widely considered "open source" if it uses an OSI-approved license.

Likewise if I host the same code repo on Github and disable issues and set the pull request template to say "All PRs will be closed and I will shout expletives at you for wasting my time", if it uses an OSI-approved license then it is still open source per the OSI's own definition.





Consider applying for YC's Winter 2026 batch! Applications are open till Nov 10

Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: