contentdb/app/flatpages/help/wtfpl.md
2021-02-05 14:21:34 +00:00

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title: WTFPL is a terrible license toc: False

Please reconsider the choice of WTFPL as a license.

<script src="/static/libs/jquery.min.js"></script>
<script>
	// @author rubenwardy
	// @license magnet:?xt=urn:btih:1f739d935676111cfff4b4693e3816e664797050&dn=gpl-3.0.txt GPL-v3-or-Later

	var params = new URLSearchParams(location.search);
	var r      = params.get("r");
	if (r)
		document.write("<a class='alert_right button' href='" + r + "'>Okay</a>");
	else
		$("#warning").hide();
</script>

The use of WTFPL as a license is discouraged for multiple reasons.

  • No Warranty disclaimer: This could open you up to being sued.[1]
  • Swearing: This prevents settings like schools from using your content.
  • Not OSI Approved: Same as public domain?

The Open Source Initiative chose not to approve the license as an open-source license, saying:[3]

It's no different from dedication to the public domain. Author has submitted license approval request author is free to make public domain dedication. Although he agrees with the recommendation, Mr. Michlmayr notes that public domain doesn't exist in Europe. Recommend: Reject.

Sources

  1. WTFPL is harmful to software developers
  2. FSF
  3. OSI