http://civicaccess.416.s1.nabble.com/The-case-for-context-in-defining-Open-Data-tp5474p5492.html
I want to concede that
"to achieve one's goals in the context of a particular situation" (my words)is a completely subjective statement, and so ineligible to be part of any formal definition.
I acknowledge that my post emphasized definitions more than was warranted.
This discussion has helped clarify for me that one reason for my post was a sense
that the close bond between the license/definition writers and the movement itself has led to
under the heading "How to open data" (bold in original):
"Address common fears and misunderstandings. This is especially important if you are working with or within large institutions such as government. When opening up data you will encounter plenty of questions and fears. It is important to (a) identify the most important ones and (b) address them at as early a stage as possible."
"The definition sets forth principles by which to judge whether a knowledge license is open, it does not seek to provide or recommend specific licenses."
So while the definition writers do not recommend specific licenses, on another page they also want to remind their advocates how to address common fears and misunderstandings about the same licenses. I think OKF has gone to sufficient lengths to separate these two sections of their site so they reach the appropriate audience; I am not crying hypocrisy. But with direct advocacy on one side, and objective licenses on the other, where does substantive discussion fit in about when is it recommended to apply these licenses? I haven't heard enough of that discussion and if nothing else, I think cases like the Weenusk First Nation should encourage more of that discussion.
Maybe there should be an
openmotivation.org with a decision tree helping governments and organizations decide how to make use of open data (if at all).
This could help them decide what goals are achievable, and what contexts can help direct their efforts most effectively.
I will make an example of what I mean by this and post it soon.
Thanks again everyone who read the blog and posted comments.
Ted