Politics and Software

March 11th, 2007 tristan Posted in computing, free software, linux, microsoft, politics 5 Comments »

Slashdot has an interesting post about visitors to Hate My Tory.

The sites owner notes that when linked to by Guido, the number of visists from Linux users rose and when linked to by Harry’s Place, the number of Mac usesrs rose.

So, does the right use more free software?

Given Guido is not a typical Tory (if he can even be called a Tory) and his readers are a variable bunch I wouldn’t put too much stock in this annecdote, but given Guido’s libertarian leanings and that of some of his readers I wouldn’t be surprised if there was a higher level of linux usage.
Microsoft likes to attack Free Software as ‘communism’, but I see it as far more libertarian. The whole movement is based upon voluntary cooperation and freedom of contract.

Personally, I use Linux at work (our servers are all linux, its far easier to develop on than Windows (the other choice)). I use a combination of Mac and Windows at home with a Linux mail and database sever. Next computer will probably be a high-spec PC with Windows and Linux though (Macs are pretty, but not that special in my opinion).

My philosophy is to prefer free software, but to use the software which is best for the job. Sometimes that is a Microsoft product. Sometimes its open source. Let competition flourish :)

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