Re: [boost] Re: Boost License Issues

From: Victor A. Wagner, Jr. (vawjr_at_[hidden])
Date: 2002-11-30 12:25:22

it is, unfortunately, in a trial lawyer's best interest to have LOTS of 
lawsuits over things.  It's how s/he gets paid.
I can't see any of them saying "Well, here's a way to put us all out of 
business, just put this quote on all your documents."

At Saturday 2002/11/30 08:43, you wrote:
>"Iain K.Hanson" <iain.hanson_at_[hidden]> writes:
>
> >> [mailto:boost-bounces_at_[hidden]]On Behalf Of David B. Held Sent: 
> 26 November 2002 21:26
> >
> >
> > [snip]
> >> Perhaps a special clause that the software does not infringe on any
> >> known patents or copyrights, but comes with no other warranties?  I
> >> have no idea what the legal status of such claims are, however.
> >>
> >
> > Thats not possoible imho. It may have expired now, but I remember
> > IBM filed a patent (US) in the late 80's oe earlier 90's on Finite
> > State Machines, The general form of FSM.
> >
> > Such a patent is clearly bogus and the defence of prior art would
> > suceed.  But I doubt that any boost author wishes to open themselves
> > up to having to defend a patent writ.
>
>My meeting with a technology lawyer at Harvard last week led me to
>believe that boost authors are already opened up to having to defend
>against a patent suit. We are responsible for our own actions. No
>matter what we write down, if we violate copyright or patent
>restrictions, we can be held liable.
>
>--
>                        David Abrahams
>    dave_at_[hidden] * http://www.boost-consulting.com
>Boost support, enhancements, training, and commercial distribution
>
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Victor A. Wagner Jr.      http://rudbek.com
The five most dangerous words in the English language:
               "There oughta be a law"