Calling GPL code from a Python application

[Peter Hansen]

Mike Meyer wrote:
> I believe there is precedent that contradicts the FSF's
> position. There are two arguments against it:
> ...
> 2) Executing a program is analogous to a performance of the software.
>    Copyright includes limits on performances, so the copyright holder
>    can place limits on the execution of the software.

Executing a program on my own computer, for my own use (i.e. without 
someone else sitting down and using the mouse and keyboard etc), is no 
more a "performance" than is my reading a copy of a book that I 
purchased.  My reading that book aloud in front of a room full of people 
(or even to one other person) is a performance.  So is putting that 
program behind a web server and letting others execute it.

At least, that's the only view that makes any sense to me given the 
regular definitions of the terms involved.

But IANMALTYA. ;-)

-Peter