Bug#685321: [SPAM:###] Bug#685321: Package nvclock talks about how binary (non-free) driversare required for access

[Russ Allbery]

"Grant H." <sirgrant at member.fsf.org> writes:

> Stefano Zacchiroli has called for a "Free-ness" assessment to work with
> the FSF on getting Debian endorsed[1].  According to the Guidelines for
> Free System Distributions a free system can't direct users to the use of
> nonfree programs [2].

> Three packages from the source "nvclock" indicate that non-free software
> is required for some sort of access.  In their description they state: "
> The official binary NVIDIA drivers are required for accesses other than
> by root. "[3][4][5]

> This language making nonfree software seem required should be omitted or
> altered.

I think this is completely silly.  (And I say that as someone who has been
a member and supporter of the FSF for years.)  That description is clear
functionality information that's relevant to people installing the package
and explains the Suggests.  A definition of "freeness" that requires
withholding useful information from users is not one that I can agree with
or support.

-- 
Russ Allbery (rra at debian.org)               <http://www.eyrie.org/~eagle/>