Why Desktop Linux?
From LUGOP
Why...because we like you
--Zmef 22:34, 3 April 2006 (CDT)
The number of desktop users is thought to be growing but it's still less than proprietary operating systems. The reasons people and organizations don't use GNU/Linux are varied. They include applications, expertise, and awareness. I am sure there are others but I believe that these motives make up the bulk of the debate. The reasons they should change are just as varied but I want to focus on four major areas: cost, freedom and security, education, and economy.
There are a lot of applications that are staples of entire industries such as graphic design. frankly, many proprietary programs are more polished with easier to use GUIs. People that are experienced users and have only ran a Microsoft OS are hesitant because of their ignorance when they are already advanced users of their software of choice. There are also still a lot of people who don't know what the hell Linux is. It's sort of surprising to me when I find someone new to explain the virtues of GNU/Linux and free software to. Not everyone has as much interest in or gets as much enjoyment out of computing as me, but i believe that can, should, and will change.
My absolute favorite thing about free software in general is that it is free, gratis. I think some people are so puzzled by that fact it scares them away. After you get over this reverse sticker shock you can begin to come to an appreciation of why someone would give away their hard work. By doing so you contribute far more to society than most any labor you'll be paid to do. You help guarantee a better future for all of civilization by sharing your knowledge and skills and allowing them to be used as building blocks for other projects. Free software protects your freedom. It promotes the inspection of source code by third parties for surety of privacy and it allows you to have control over your own property.
GNU/Linux and free software promote true understanding of information technology. Currently in the US we have fewer science and math graduates every year. Without understanding the basic principles of the technology that is consuming our collective lives, we will fall behind in advancement and innovation. Linux is driving the global economy, and without covering the foreground of education the rewards will be reaped by others who have.
Free software is revolutionary. It's outlaw. it's culture is spilling over to areas like beer brewers, restaurants, and drug companies. It's well crafted bits of binary code served to everyone and anyone just as fast as your broadband pipe,twisted pair, or wireless link will carry it. It's worked it's way from the server and has exploded onto the desktop and has already made it's mark in the next generation of handheld computing: wireless phones.
There are a lot of practical reasons why not to use GNU/Linux on your desktop computer but are any really as vital as why you should? For the average home user and many business scenarios I don't believe so. Comparable quality at a nonexistent price is an easy enough decision for most. The "people power" behind free software is it's true strength.though, and ultimately what will lead to it's success.
