How to properly advocate Linux

Here are my tips on those who wish to become true Linux advocates.

1. Do not call people who use Windows "morons" or
"idiots". That will definitely turn them off in an instant, no matter
how much truth is in your message.

2. Point out the security holes and adware/spyware/malware/
trojans in Windows, and point out that GNU/Linux-based
operating systems are immune to adware/spyware/malware/trojans.

3. Point out that most software in Linux is what's called FLOSS (free/
libre open source software) which translates into quicker bug fixes and
the freedom to modify the source code in any way you see fit and share
your hard work with others without fear of being accused of piracy.

4. Point out the Linux counterparts to all the popular
Windows programs. Point out that programs such as Amarok and Rhythmbox
are worthwhile alternatives to iTunes. Point out that OpenOffice.org is just as
good as Microsoft Office and WAY more affordable ($0 for OpenOffice.org versus
$500 for MS Office). Point out that GIMP is just as good as Photoshop and WAY
more afforable ($0 for GIMP, and up to $1,000+ for Photoshop). Point out that
Evolution is as good and as functional as Microsoft Outlook without the huge price
tag. And I would also point out that some Windows programs are actually cross-platform and available on Linux. These programs include Firefox, Thunderbird, Miro (formerly Democracy Player), GIMP, and Pidgin (formerly Gaim).

5. Point out that today's Linuxes (should that be Linuces? lol) are very easy to install, and most can be run straight from the CD/DVD as a "live CD" so they can give it a test run.

6. Finally, point out to the gamers that there are more games available for Linux
than the establishment wants you to think. In fact, there are lots of
first-person "deathmatch" shooters they can play online with others.
There are also nice free games such as Frozen Bubble and even classic
console game emulators (such as Atari 2600, NES, SNES, and Sega
Genesis). And then I'd point out that popular game franchises such as
Unreal Tournament are being ported to Linux.

7. Sum it up by pointing out that Linux can pretty much do everything
Windows does, and in some cases Linux does it better (there are some
things Windows does better than Linux), and most versions of Linux are
free to download.

8. The best thing you could probably do is burn an easy Linux such as
Ubuntu/Kubuntu/Xubuntu to a CD and hand them out for free (much like
how the 9/11 Truthers do with Alex Jones DVDs). That way, they can
take the CD home and give it a test drive. I'd be sure to
make copies of the regular desktop installation CD as well as copies
of the alternate installation CD (for those whose computers aren't
powerful enough to run the live CD function of the regular desktop
installation CD).

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