Hello everyone and welcome back to the Cognixia podcast. In September 1983, Richard Stallman launched a project that would fundamentally alter the software landscape: GNU. This operating system emerged as a free alternative to the dominant Unix systems of the era. Stallman's vision was driven by a core belief: software should be open and accessible to all. He saw a growing trend towards proprietary software and copyright restrictions, and GNU was his response. This philosophy – that unrestricted access to code, free from commercial limitations, would benefit the world – became the foundation of the free software movement.

Fast forward four decades. Today's tech landscape is dominated by proprietary software, generating billions for tech corporations. Many everyday technologies, from complex language models like ChatGPT to seemingly simple smart thermostats, function as black boxes for consumers. Against this backdrop, Richard Stallman's vision of a free software movement might appear like a utopian ideal, overpowered by commercial forces.

However, the story doesn't end there. In 2024, the free and open-source software (FOSS) movement is not only enduring but thriving. FOSS has become a cornerstone of the tech industry, playing a crucial role in innovation and development.

Open-source software (OSS) has become a ubiquitous element in modern technology. A staggering 96% of codebases now incorporate some form of OSS, demonstrating its widespread adoption. This collaborative spirit extends to platforms like GitHub, the world's largest hub for open-source development, boasting over 100 million users worldwide.

Even within the commercial sector, the value of open source is recognized. Amazon Web Services (AWS), a major cloud computing platform, actively supports the development and maintenance of open-source projects. This commitment was further solidified in December last year when AWS pledged its patent portfolio to an open-use community.

This trend towards open-source collaboration comes at a time when public trust in private tech companies is declining. In response, organizations like Google, Spotify, the Ford Foundation, Bloomberg, and even NASA have established new funding initiatives. These efforts not only support open-source projects but also extend the principles of open collaboration to scientific research endeavors – a movement known as open science.

The widespread adoption of open-source software (OSS) has brought benefits and challenges. While OSS has become a cornerstone of modern technology, its long-standing leadership and diversity issues require critical attention.