Re: [GNU-linux-libre] the straw that broke the camel's back

[Ruben Rodriguez]

On 7/13/23 16:38, bill-auger wrote:
> On Thu, 13 Jul 2023 11:02:19 +0200 Ricardo wrote:
> > For me the
> > conclusion is obvious: I’ll just ignore whatever actions this group
> > declares as decided when *this* is exemplary of the decision making
> > process.
>
> well, i rest my case - if FSDG distros will not to follow the recommendations

Recommendations are precisely that, recommendations. Each project can 
still draw the line where they see fit. The FSDG also have requirements 
("a free disto *must* not..."), but this is not the case at hand.

> and will not help to improve them, we may as well disband the work-group and
> delete the FSDG - it is useless unless distros respect it _as_ _written_, and
> actively help to change outdated or misguided parts
>
> ricardo has just confirmed my suspicion that we are wasting our time on this
> mailing list - i can tolerate a few wild decisions and bike-shedding - but what
> is not acceptable, is that there are no consequences for distros which ignore
> the work-group's decisions and even declare that intention publicly

The work-group has not made any decisions, rms has. He decided that the 
FSDG would urge distros not to distribute scummvm, and he confirmed to 
me that such urging is a recommendation. Those who agree with his view 
on that topic may follow his urging, others may not.

> OTOH (my preference), we could strengthen the reputation and usefulness of
> work-group by limiting discussions to the important issues, and further by
> revoking endorsement of distros which refuse to participate in the discussions,
> but rather ignore the decisions of the people who did participate

This work-group has not been given the powers you allude to (issue FSDG 
recommendations or requirements, or endorse/unendorse distros).

> frankly, this has gone on much too long, while the only people who could
> possibly tame this chaos are the ones adding the most to the chaos - it is
> quite discouraging to see the very people we are working for, rejecting the
> efforts with such indignation - one would need to be insane to stay on this
> bandwagon
>
> if nothing changes, and _very_ soon, to give distros some imperative to respect
> the work-group, i must withdraw also, if only for the sake of my own sanity and
> dignity - i have plenty of other things to do that will be fruitful and people
> will respect

As the work-group can't issue any rulings, there can't be such 
imperative. Distros can choose to follow the FSDG or not, and they can 
choose to discuss stuff here, but that is all.