Code Of Ethics

1. Overview

This document was originally called a "Code of Conduct" and was created (in a slightly different format) for the purpose of filling in a box on "supplier registration" forms submitted to the SQLite developers by various minor clients. However, we subsequently learned that "Code of Conduct" has a specific technical meaning within many software development communities, a meaning which was at odds with the intent of this document. Hence, this document is now renamed and replaced by a Code of Conduct that does comply with the specific technical requirements was inserted in the place of the old name.

This document is still sometimes used as a "Code of Conduct" on supplier registration forms. But it is not a Code of Conduct in the same sense that many communities mean a Code of Conduct. Rather, this document describes the ethical principles upon which SQLite is based. Another way to look at this document is as a succinct description of the SQLite Founder's idea of what it means to be "virtuous".

Readers can also interpret this document as a primer on the world-view of the SQLite Founder, to help them better understand "where he is coming from".

1.1. Instruments of Good Works

The founder of SQLite, and all of the current developers at the time when this document was composed, have pledged to govern their interactions with each other, with their clients, and with the larger SQLite user community in accordance with the "instruments of good works" from chapter 4 of The Rule of St. Benedict (hereafter: "The Rule"). This code of ethics has proven its mettle in thousands of diverse communities for over 1,500 years, and has served as a baseline for many civil law codes since the time of Charlemagne.

1.2. Scope of Application

No one is required to follow The Rule, to know The Rule, or even to think that The Rule is a good idea. The Founder of SQLite believes that anyone who follows The Rule will live a happier and more productive life, but individuals are free to dispute or ignore that advice if they wish.

The founder of SQLite and all current developers have pledged to follow spirit of The Rule to the best of their ability. They view The Rule as their promise to all SQLite users of how the developers are expected to behave in community. This is a one-way promise, or covenant. In other words, the developers are saying: "We will treat you this way regardless of how you treat us."

2. The Rule