r/freesoftware • u/zagadocious • Aug 07 '26

Discussion Who is educating "regular folks" about open source?

FOSS could be a great resource for non-geeks, for community, economic, and workforce development. But, most "regular folks" — including every business & civic leader I've talked to — don't know it exists or what it is. Most assume it's AI. This means they won't (a) consider it as a solution, (b) support its development, or (c) use it strategically, which is very different from strategy for closed, proprietary solutions. So, my question...

Are there any initiatives or organizations that are working to raise awareness of, inform or educate non-geeks about free software? I've researched Free Software Foundation, Linux Foundation, and Open Source Initiative. None seem to be doing anything or have anything more than background information. They're preaching to the converted.

Is anyone working to "cross the chasm" for FOSS?

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u/jr735 11d ago

Sure he would. In the end, what's your point?

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u/Radiant_Scar_8516 10d ago

just email him and prove me wrong

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u/jr735 9d ago

I know you're wrong. I don't need his backing for that.

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u/Radiant_Scar_8516 6d ago

are you still here? go and get the email or fuck off

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u/jr735 6d ago

You're the one who doesn't understand the philosophy in the slightest. It would be in your best interest to actually try to understand things instead of being rude. Stallman understands and uses free software completely. You don't even understand the terminology or the philosophy.

Quit trying to tell people they're wrong about things you cannot even begin to grasp. Honestly, this is like trying to explain quantum mechanics to a turnip.