My opinion on this is that I think it does promote "Linux" because
many people distrust and do not understand the word free in free
software (There is no distinction drawn between Open Source and Free
Software within this group of people). For some folk there is an
implication of higher quality the more money is required in exchange
for software. If awareness of such software in this group of people is
raised then so will be their regard for Linux.
I did want to sit back watch but I think you've hit a nail on the head it always amazes me the total lack of comprehension by some people of FOSS as you know all it means is "Your FREE to do what you with it and the code" (Within its license restrictions if there are any) for the coder there is a COST involved and for the end user, in most cases, probably only the COST of downloading it.
Thats why, IMO, the title FOSS is flawed on two levels, I've had this discussion a thousand times over the years firstly its always that title which causes the problem. IMO I think the *F* needs to be dropped or possibly changed to *Unrestricted* (UOSS) that would clear the muddy water in respect of cost.
Secondly I think it re-muddies the water when talking about FOSS and Linux. Yes yes yes Linux is Open Source but we are talking of two distinct things e.g. driving a car and transportation. Hopefully when people say "Why not use open source to do that" they are talking of such things as Open Office, Gimp and Amarok etc. Now as we all know a lot of OSS runs on Windows so thats promoting FOSS to the Windows/MS users.
The title of this thread was "Promoting Linux" not necessarily FOSS I was thinking more in terms of negatives you get to installing Linux as apposed to Vista;
A. I cant play games. [cedega?]
B. I have to use Paint shop [CrossOver?]
You get me drift, given that they probably are considering OpenSUSE, Gentoo, Ubuntu etc etc would the £22.00 (Roughly) for CrossOver deter or get them to make the *Leap of faith* and use/switch to Linux? and if so IMV a propriety piece of software has promoted Linux but hey I may be wrong remember they crucified a bloke for being perfect. :-)