Re^2: Perl modules and the GPL

Any XS wrapper (statically) linking to a GPLed library

As far as I understand dynamic linking of GPL libraries with proprietary programs are not allowed either. There was a famous email conversation between RMS and Bruno Haible where they discussed this question.

Comment on Re^2: Perl modules and the GPL

Replies are listed 'Best First'.
Re^3: Perl modules and the GPL by Corion (Patriarch) on Feb 01, 2010 at 22:34 UTC
There is no fact, mere "discussions with a lawyer" regarding dynamic linking, and I don't see the linking that Perl does (dynamically loading object code) as "creating a derivative work" in the same sense that linking to a C header creates a "derivative work", because to use the API from Perl does not involve the C headers. Building the XS component involves the C headers and thus makes the XS component a derivative work, but that cannot infect the Perl program, no matter how much RMS wants this to.	[reply]

Replies are listed 'Best First'.

Re^3: Perl modules and the GPL
by Corion (Patriarch) on Feb 01, 2010 at 22:34 UTC

There is no fact, mere "discussions with a lawyer" regarding dynamic linking, and I don't see the linking that Perl does (dynamically loading object code) as "creating a derivative work" in the same sense that linking to a C header creates a "derivative work", because to use the API from Perl does not involve the C headers.

Building the XS component involves the C headers and thus makes the XS component a derivative work, but that cannot infect the Perl program, no matter how much RMS wants this to.

[reply]