Nine Reasons for Using Open Source Software

For years, I've wondered why anyone still bothers with proprietary software. Around the turn of the millennium, they might not have found an open source alternative, but today, that situation is rare enough that it comes as a surprise. Force of habit is a likely explanation, but often users simply don't know what they don't know. In fact, thanks to obsolete rumors, sometimes what users believe about open source is the exact opposite of the truth. By contrast, here are x reasons, both practical and philosophical, why I do all my computing with open source software:

9. No cost. Open source is supposed to be about philosophy and consumers' rights, but let's be honest -- being free for the download doesn't hurt, either. After over a decade, I find buying and pirating software alike the quaint relics of an archaic system. A system whose high prices encourage dishonesty is distasteful me, and I particularly dislike the way that, considering the high unemployment rates among disabled -- over twice the general norm, means that companies in effect receive direct subsidies from governments or non- profits when they sell accessibility software...

...1. Access to the Best Software

The profit motive exists in open source software, but it is not the dominant one. Increasingly, key pieces of software are run by non-profit foundations, which frees programmers to focus on excellence. Although in recent years, there has been a move towards regularly scheduled releases, many projects will delay a release rather than ship defective software...