Linus Addresses Criticism for Harsh Language
Kernel king admits his tone has alienated volunteers, but says the demands of the process require directness.
Linux founder and kernel honcho Linus Torvalds took the stage recently at the Linux + CloudOpen conference in Düsseldorf, Germany. The Q&A session was moderated by Intel Linux chief Dirk Hohndel and also included questions from the audience. Much of the session focused on the kernel development process, the role of maintainers, and the need for more and better testing for the 10,000 packages submitted with each new kernel release cycle.
Some of the commentary, however, seemed to be in response to the recent, well publicized remarks from kernel developer Lennart Poettering, who questioned the combativeness of the kernel development process and blamed Torvalds for setting a tone of disrespect. When asked what about his biggest regret over his years as the top kernel maintainer, Linus replied that he had no technical regrets, however, "the problems tend to be alienating users and developers, and I'm pretty good at that."
Linus seemed conciliatory in acknowledging the criticism of his harsh tone; however, he also offered justification, adding "On the Internet, no one can hear you be subtle."
Those who prefer the high-stress and strong language of the kernel development community needn't worry that Linus will change his approach anytime soon. The interview also included the following exchange:
Linus: What really matters is people are involved with creating the best technology we can.
Hohndel: And what's important is they enjoy being called monkeys on crack?
Linus: Some people do. There is a certain amount of Stockholm syndrome. When you abuse somebody enough, they start liking it.
Torvalds added that he was joking; however, it is likely that those who call for more civility will not find levity in the casual comparison of kernel developers to hostages under duress. The complete interview is available online at the Linux.com site.
Issue 269/2023
Buy this issue as a PDF
Subscribe to our Linux Newsletters
Find Linux and Open Source Jobs
Subscribe to our ADMIN Newsletters
Find SysAdmin Jobs
News
-
Kubuntu Focus Announces XE Gen 2 Linux Laptop
Another Kubuntu-based laptop has arrived to be your next ultra-portable powerhouse with a Linux heart.
-
MNT Seeks Financial Backing for New Seven-Inch Linux Laptop
MNT Pocket Reform is a tiny laptop that is modular, upgradable, recyclable, reusable, and ships with Debian Linux.
-
Ubuntu Flatpak Remix Adds Flatpak Support Preinstalled
If you're looking for a version of Ubuntu that includes Flatpak support out of the box, there's one clear option.
-
Gnome 44 Release Candidate Now Available
The Gnome 44 release candidate has officially arrived and adds a few changes into the mix.
-
Flathub Vying to Become the Standard Linux App Store
If the Flathub team has any say in the matter, their product will become the default tool for installing Linux apps in 2023.
-
Debian 12 to Ship with KDE Plasma 5.27
The Debian development team has shifted to the latest version of KDE for their testing branch.
-
Planet Computers Launches ARM-based Linux Desktop PCs
The firm that originally released a line of mobile keyboards has taken a different direction and has developed a new line of out-of-the-box mini Linux desktop computers.
-
Ubuntu No Longer Shipping with Flatpak
In a move that probably won’t come as a shock to many, Ubuntu and all of its official spins will no longer ship with Flatpak installed.
-
openSUSE Leap 15.5 Beta Now Available
The final version of the Leap 15 series of openSUSE is available for beta testing and offers only new software versions.
-
Linux Kernel 6.2 Released with New Hardware Support
Find out what's new in the most recent release from Linus Torvalds and the Linux kernel team.