Commentator: In academic scholarship, sources are always cited, and methodology and theoretical assumptions are set out, so as to allow critical study, replication, and expansion of scholarship.
Premises
In academic scholarship, sources are always cited, and methodology and theoretical assumptions are set out, so as to allow critical study, replication, and expansion of scholarship.
In open-source software, the code in which the program is written can be viewed and modified by individual users for their purposes without getting permission from the producer or paying a fee.
In contrast, the code of proprietary software is kept secret, and modifications can be made only by the producer.
Intermediate Conclusion
This shows that open-source software better matches the values embodied in academic scholarship.
Premise
Scholarship is central to the mission of universities.
Main Conclusion
Universities should use only open-source software.