Lev Lazinskiy

Creative Commons and Open Source Media

If you have not figured it out by now I am an avid proponent of open source software. I believe that people should have the opportunity to have access to technology, software, and information regardless of where they live, or their socioeconomic status. In addition to open source and free software, I am also a huge fan of the creative commons license.

This license is in a way, the direct opposite of DRM (Digital Rights Management) which places restrictions on music, movies, books, etc.. that you purchase. Creative commons has several different levels of licenses, but the ultimate goal is to promote the free sharing of information, music, movies, and art.

https://creativecommons.org/

There is nothing wrong with making money, there is nothing wrong with selling the art and music that you spent your talent, time, and energy to create. There is however, in my opinion, a big difference between making a living - and selling your soul to your publisher who’s only goal in life is to make a profit - not promote art.

So in the spirit of creative commons (which also licenses this blog :) ) check out a couple places where you can find some great music and movies. If you like what you hear or see – donate to the artist. The same goes for open source software. If you are using LibreOffice or GIMP for your personal or professional use and you find that it is useful and allows you to get your work accomplished, do not forget that you saved over $1000 buy using them over the commercial product (MS Office and Photoshop). Donate something to show the people who worked hard to make this software that you support their cause and in turn your donation will help to facilitate even better open source software in the future.

When I say donate - I do not just mean give money. You can donate your time, you can spread the word on your own website, you could donate your talents (programming, marketing, documentation, web design) and your time. If we all work together - then great things will happen.