"Linux is a cancer that attaches itself in an intellectual property sense to everything it touches"

This quote by Steve Ballmer is a criticism of the Linux os. He is implying that Linux is a virus that spreads out and takes control of other systems, comparable to a cancer. He is likewise indicating that Linux is a risk to copyright, as it can be used to copy and distribute software application without permission. This quote shows the tension in between the open source software motion and the traditional software application market. Ballmer is expressing his fear that Linux will weaken the standard software application industry by permitting people to access and use software application without paying for it. This quote also shows the fear that Linux will become the dominant os, eliminating market share from Microsoft and other standard software application business. In general, this quote shows the tension in between the open source software application movement and the conventional software application industry, and Ballmer's worry that Linux will undermine the traditional software application market.