Communally Empowered Software License

Embrace the Power of Collaboration

The Communally Empowered Software License (CESL) v1.0 is an open-source software license that embodies the principles of communal empowerment, collaboration, and the challenge to prevailing capitalist norms in the technology industry. This license envisions a transformative future for software development, advocating for collective ownership and prioritizing the well-being of the community over individual profit motives. CESL seeks to inspire a new paradigm where software is a potent force for positive change and equitable collaboration.

License Terms

1. Grant of License: Subject to the terms and conditions of this license, the copyright holders hereby grant the User, whether an individual or an organization, a worldwide, non-exclusive, royalty-free license to use, copy, modify, merge, distribute, and/or sell copies of the Software, and to permit persons to whom the Software is furnished to do the same, provided that the following conditions are met:

2. Communal Empowerment: The User agrees to uphold the principles of communal empowerment and collaboration. The Software shall be used exclusively for purposes that benefit the collective well-being of the community, excluding any profit-driven or exploitative motives.

3. Worker Solidarity and Equitable Representation: If the User is an organization, it shall adhere to the principles of worker solidarity. All members of the organization are considered workers, and all workers have an equal say in decision-making and equity ownership. The organization's governance model shall be based on egalitarian principles, ensuring equitable representation and collective decision-making.

4. Inclusivity and Non-Discrimination: The User shall actively oppose discrimination based on race, gender, ethnicity, nationality, religion, or any other factor. Contributions to the Software shall be welcomed from all individuals and organizations that uphold the vision of communal empowerment, fostering an inclusive environment for all participants.

5. Free and Open Collaboration: The User acknowledges that the Software and its source code are made freely accessible and shared openly with the community. Users and contributors are encouraged to collaborate, share knowledge, and build upon the Software without restrictive barriers, fostering a culture of open knowledge sharing and innovation.

6. Copyleft and Share-Alike: Any modifications, additions, or derivatives of the Software shall be released under the same Communally Empowered Software License (CESL) v1.0. This provision ensures that the principles of communal empowerment and collaboration extend to future iterations of the Software, promoting a chain of open-source contributions.

7. No Warranty and Liability Limitation: THE SOFTWARE IS PROVIDED "AS IS," WITHOUT EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND. THE AUTHORS AND COPYRIGHT HOLDERS SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY CLAIM, DAMAGES, OR OTHER LIABILITY ARISING FROM THE USE OR DISTRIBUTION OF THE SOFTWARE.

About CESL

The Communally Empowered Software License (CESL) was conceived in [year] by a group of passionate developers and activists who sought to create a new paradigm for open-source software. CESL embodies the principles of communal empowerment, collaboration, and equitable representation, challenging conventional norms in the tech industry.

The license envisions a future where software development fosters inclusive communities, empowers individuals, and prioritizes the well-being of the collective over individual profits. CESL aims to create a software ecosystem where solidarity, egalitarian governance, and open collaboration thrive, fostering a transformative force for positive change.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I use CESL-licensed software?

You can use CESL-licensed software for any purpose that benefits the community's collective well-being. This includes personal use, educational use, and non-commercial projects. However, you are not allowed to use the software for profit-driven or exploitative motives.

Q: Can I modify and distribute CESL-licensed software?

Yes, you are allowed to modify and distribute CESL-licensed software. However, any modifications or derivatives you create must also be released under the same CESL v1.0 license, ensuring that the principles of communal empowerment and collaboration extend to future iterations of the Software.

Q: How can I contribute to CESL?

We welcome contributions from individuals and organizations that uphold the vision of communal empowerment and collaboration. You can contribute by participating in discussions, submitting code improvements, reporting issues, or supporting other community members.