On: Ruby hacker proposes to quit his job and work only on OSS while living on donation money

[nickb]

I'd throw in some cash the second he decides to try this. Working full-time on something is much more productive than working evenings.

[staticshock → nickb]

is he working on something you need, or would you just support him for the sake of idealism?

if you do need the end product, then it seems reasonable enough. but if it's idealism you seek, how many hackers should set up donation bins before you stop donating to each new one?