Interesting article. This reminds me of 1995 when the Internet opened up in India. One of my friends, a nuclear scientist at TIFR (remember that the atom kickers were the pioneers of the net) sniffed his nose at the great onrush of people into this exclusive territory and called it the "lumpenization of the Internet." To his credit, he subsequently changed his mind.
:-)
Venky
Linux Snobs: Real Barriers to Entry
http://www.reallylinux.com/docs/snobsoped.shtml
"Today, Linux growth includes a vast number of new comers, sometimes well versed in technology but at other times not so well versed. These new users are coming to us and asking us to help them cross the great divide. I hope that more people will extend a hand to someone who sincerely appreciates Linux and wishes to be part of the Linux community, and help offset those who see new comers as bad."
"After all, we do share a common goal, and the growing and continued success of Linux invariably depends on each of us individuals. My hope is that many new comers to Linux will see what a great community and what a great promise Linux holds not only for themselves but also their organizations."