From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Linux is a family of open source Unix-like operating systems based on the Linux kernel, an operating system kernel first released on September 17, 1991 by Linus Torvalds. Linux is typically packaged in a Linux distribution (or distro for short).
Distributions include the Linux kernel and supporting system software and libraries, many of which are provided by the GNU Project. Many Linux distributions use the word “Linux” in their name, but the Free Software Foundation uses the name GNU/Linux to emphasize the importance of GNU software, causing some controversy.
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Linux isn’t “about” anything. It’s just a kernel that some people build operating systems on top of. There’s nothing deep or mystical about it.
Linus himself said he only cares about code.
(source)
I understand what you are saying as well as what Linus says - but I think in this context, when people say “linux”, they are usually referring to the linux kernel with GNU userspace programs and toolkits (aka most desktop linux distributions). Those of us, like myself, that don’t think calling my desktop OS GNU/Linux is controversial (it’s just what it is) are making a choice - I am choosing freedom over convenience (although, more and more, gnu/linux os’s are becoming easier and more polished). I am choosing to go the extra mile to get a certain driver working properly or use an alternative program that may not be as user friendly as the commercial version (I’m looking at you, GIMP) because I am making a choice to own and use my programs, rather than they use me.