I don't really understand what it means for physical items like shoes to be open source in the sense that some software is.
Users are already free to modify their shoes. And even if you had a video showing how the shoes were made, that isn't enough to replicate the shoes unless you have the machinery and dexterity to make shoes.
He also claims he wants to be open source in "how I get around." What would it mean for walking to be open source or closed source? Is it "open source" to ride a bus?
> I don't really understand what it means for physical items like shoes to be open source in the sense that some software is.
Tangentially related, but despite the article's definition of open source: "It's definitely not just software", it's a peeve of mine nonetheless to hear the term "open source" applied in non-software/programming contexts. Especially with some of the examples you've pointed out:
> He also claims he wants to be open source in "how I get around." What would it mean for walking to be open source or closed source? Is it "open source" to ride a bus?
Why is the term "open source" not applicable to any context in which the design of a product is distinct from its final form, and in which that design is conventionally covered by copyrights or patents?
If an architect released a set of standard building plans under an open license, would that not be legitimately "open source"?
Consider that shoe piracy is actually pretty prevalent. You are free to make and modify shoes, but you are not free to sell copies (knockoffs, as they are commonly known) of existing closed source shoes.
Fascinating. Interesting that the courts deem fashion too utilitarian to copyright or patent, but purely utilitarian computer programs can be copyrighted and applications of algorithms can be patented.
Fashion has been around for a little bit longer the computer programs, the courts have had more of an opportunity to understand and make reasonable decisions about it. See what you think in 2112.
Users are already free to modify their shoes. And even if you had a video showing how the shoes were made, that isn't enough to replicate the shoes unless you have the machinery and dexterity to make shoes.
He also claims he wants to be open source in "how I get around." What would it mean for walking to be open source or closed source? Is it "open source" to ride a bus?