The Open Source Alternative: Shrink-Wrap, Open Source and Copyright

Abstract

"In the following section I will evaluate the promise of the open source model as a viable path that moves beyond current copyright dilemmas. First, I will look briefly at the types of licensing agreements that come with computer software today. Second, I will describe how UCITA represents a model for licensing that is too expansive and the resistance that has built up to passage of UCITA across the United States. Finally, I would like to evaluate the open source movement’s use of licensing agreements as a potential alternative to the licensing model associated with EULA’s and UCITA."