EDIT: I realize we may be imagining different scenarios. I was thinking about the example given, of running original DOS programs in modern computers.
2) I didn't say you can do it easily, I said you CAN do it.
3) Yes and I can run decades old UNIX software on OS X or Ubuntu. So what?
My point about debatable backwards compatibility is that some old DOS software does NOT work well in modern Windows. Some does, some doesn't. If you haven't experienced problems, lucky you.
4) You made my point for me here.
I'm not arguing any further, you're clearly a zealot, and have exactly the kind of attitude I was talking about.
> I'm not arguing any further, you're clearly a zealot
Is this not part of a wider discussion about ownership and 'unregulated rights' for stuff such as books, music, films as well as hardware?
Global comment: Shuttleworth can do the public relations can't he?
But if Subaru tell you that you cannot tune aftermarket your Subaru or you must drive it only on Subaru approved roads in California (but not Nevada) it is stupid.
Currently we are in the reverse dongle situation- in the 90s you need that dongle so your software (OrCAD back then) can work. Now is the opposite - you may like the hardware but we actively prevent you for using it with other software.
The problem comes from the fact that modern devices are general purpose PCs in ultra small factors. You couldn't change nokia 3310 OS back then, but you needed not because the thing was a phonebook with antenna. But nowadays with so much of your life stored in the smartphone the idea that someone has higher privileges/easier access to your data than you is between repulsive and frightening.
I think you're confusing Linux with the Free Software movement. Linux, the kernel, is all about open source producing high quality software - at least from Linus Torvalds' point of view.
2) No you cant. You must use exploits/vulnerabilities usually. The only vendor that I know of that just sends you unlock code on request is HTC.
3) Yesterday I played Diablo 1 on my windows 8 machine. 3 months before that - Lotus (the game). That is measured in decades. How backwards capability is debatable.
4) Yes linux is everywhere. But invisible - moving the servers, or hidden below deep layers of customized software in the consumer devices. The linux ideology - nowhere to be seen.
Having the ability to run simple firewall to control what processes use your data plan is hardly absolutism. Or editing memory value of a running process.
Edit: Do you support the Chinese Great Firewall - because there is no difference in restricting access to internet and to software in principle?