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Why would I build my own OS from scratch if I could embed Linux in my project? Why write my own C compiler and stdlib if I can use GNU’s? It seems strange to me to want people to start from scratch; I see the value of open source as avoiding that pointless toil and am happy to see build their companies on top of open source (so long as they’re in compliance with the license).

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Why would I build my own OS from scratch if I could embed Linux in my project?

In a word, performance. You know how when you were a kid and turned some device like a TV on it worked instantly but these days you might have to wait a minute before anything interesting happens? That's one thing that can happen when layers and layers of abstraction and generic software replace highly specialised firmware designed for each product. Of course building all those layers might be cheaper, faster or easier. Unfortunately that doesn't always mean the end result is better for the user.

there is a grey area between reuse and abuse

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