Libre vs Free
From WikiEducator
Ken Udas once challenged me to argue for "Free" (after writing Say Libre).
At the time I did not have time, so, I sort of copped out by referring everyone to RMS's writings.
However, it is a good exercise, and I invite people to populate and extend this table with arguments for/against and counter-arguments:
| Free | Libre |
|---|---|
| The word is familiar in English | There are many loanwords in English and "libre" is a useful addition. |
| In such contexts, someone will have to point out the real meaning, and then people will get it, and not make the same mistake again. | The word "free" is ambiguous and in some contexts this causes real confusion. Even after explaining the difference, confusion can persist, and it has to be re-explained every time there are new listeners present. Perhaps we should not use the word "free" at all in this context (use only "gratis" and "libre") |
| When searching for "free" resources, irrespective of the intended meaning, people will also find and learn about free/libre resources. | This strategy will ensure the confusion persists, and is bordering on devious. |
| "Free" is consistent with its use in the context of free software upon which the free/libre knowledge concept is based. | Libre is now an accepted loanword in English and is more precise and unambiguous. |
