Thesis Adopts A Split GPL

Chris Pearson and Matt Mullenweg clashed over GPL in an interview conducted at Mixergy.

The license adopted is one that covers Thesis for its WordPress components as well as Pearson’s own work into the product. So, you cannot redistribute Thesis as it currently is. You can only redistribute the parts that are WordPress code and API.

It boils down to the fact that Pearson can deliver a product that he can only offer, rather than adopting GPL for the whole theme and possibly losing business.

For me, I think this is a fair compromise. I am very sure it was a hard one to deal with and while I am certain there are a few developers grumbling that they cannot work with the entire code, at least they can work a little more with what is there. It is not an easy decision when changing software licenses because it can effect a lot of people.

However this protects Pearson’s work and also honors WordPress. Kudos to Chris Pearson!

I will say that for those who have been supporters of GPL software, this comes as great news! It is great that Matt Mullenweg stepped up to the plate to take on this issue.

What are your thoughts?