I think this topic is related to exactly why the TCLUG was started. It
was started to give newbies a place to learn about Linux, and for
other Linux users to socialize with other users. It was NOT created to
proactively switch users away from other OS's. Yes, Ben has a good
point. We shouldn't try and force anyone to use Linux. That will only
make Linux look bad since they probably aren't going to enjoy the
experience. But if someone wants to switch and needs someplace to go
to figure some things out, then lets do everything we can to help
them.

On the other hand, I think "showing off" Linux is a good thing as
well. Yes, 95% probably won't care about Linux, but it's that 5% that
might be interested that will benefit in the end.

-- Clay

On Tue, 19 Feb 2002, Ben Lutgens wrote:

> On Tue, Feb 19, 2002 at 10:58:36AM -0600, Jim Kaufman wrote:
> >Much as it pains me to admit it, I agree with Ben. 
> 
> Awww c'mon it's not so bad. Periodically in all my ranting I make valid
> points. I have no problem saying what's on my mind even if it's wrong :-)
> 
> >Frankly, most people
> >using Windows systems are happy enough and really shouldn't be messing
> >around with anything else. If someone is interested enough to want to
> >try a Linux OS, I am happy to provide advice. It doesn't really help to
> >force Linux on anyone.
> 
> My point is that _convincing_ someone to use it is a bad idea. If they're
> unhappy with their current setup, they'll discover it on their own. If you
> convince them that linux is best, show up with a cd and they have nothign
> but problems you've screwed yourself into spending more time on it that you
> wanted to and given them lots of ammo to tell people how bad it sucks.
> 
> >I've given up trying to fight it. My home network supports several Linux
> 
> At one time I thought that everyone in Sistina should use linux, now i
> think they should use whatever helps them be the most productive and
> cost-effective for the company.
> 
> -- 
> Ben Lutgens		http://people.sistina.com/~blutgens/	
> Sistina Software Inc.
> 
> pub  1024D/9A0DDC59 2001-12-12 Ben Lutgens <blutgens at sistina.com>
>      Key fingerprint = 8FCD A1EE CEA7 DEE1 9361  F32C 0A90 30D1 9A0D DC59
> sub  1024g/1FC75C99 2001-12-12