I have found a topic that makes people angry. It’s funny, because it really shouldn’t…
OK. In nearly every piece of modern commercial software, there is a document bundled with it called the End User License Agreement. It is shown during installation, and you must explicitly agree with it in order to continue with the install process. This EULA generally gives the writers explicit control of your computer, hardware and software, all your time, and your immortal soul. Most people click ‘ok’ and ignore it; most don’t read it at all.
The problem I pose is this: what if I were to write an alternate for the Windows Installer, one which was identical (functionally, I wouldn’t be reverse-engineering it because that might be illegal) in every way but for one: it wouldn’t ever display, or require you to agree to, the EULA. Then I go through the exercise of removing every piece of software on my machine, and reinstalling it with my custom installer.
At that point, I should not be bound by any EULAs. I have specifically removed any contractual obligations on my part. I say that at this point, I would be free to do whatever the hell I want with my software. Other CSs in the house disagree. They say that there is implied agreement to the EULA every time you run the software, whether or not you ever actually agreed to it. I say that’s bullshit.
What do you all think?
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