* @ 24/01/06 09:33:40 PM james_b / neurogami.com wrote:
> simonh wrote:
> >Couldn't post a reply on Daves site so thought i'd post one here. Here
> >is post:
> >
> >http://blogs.pragprog.com/cgi-bin/pragdave.cgi/Random/Imitation.rdoc
> >
> >I think this is happening a lot. 37signals has been ripped off
> >according to DHH (I believe), rails has inspired many 'best ever, just
> >what you were looking for' web frameworks. I think it is a fact of
> >life. Selection of the Fittest in action. The unworthy will surely
> >perish as they always do.
> 
> How many people or companies create anything out of thin air?  How much
> is simply the influence of the extant culture and available technology,
> and how much is raw innovation? When does influence become "ripping off"?
> 
> If you take an idea from one person, it's stealing,  but imitate what 

No, you can't steal but you might infringe.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Copyright_infringement

have fun,

SteveC steve / asklater.com http://www.asklater.com/steve/