Positive Sum License (PSL)
Preamble: The Positive Sum License (PSL) is designed to foster a collaborative, innovation-driven ecosystem that rewards contribution, ethical practices, and shared success. This license is built upon the principles of a positive-sum game, ensuring that all participants benefit from mutual cooperation rather than competing in a zero-sum framework. To achieve this, the PSL includes geographic, accountability, and share-alike provisions that reinforce collective responsibility and prevent exploitation.
1. Grant of License
Subject to the terms and conditions of this license, permission is granted to use, modify, distribute, and create derivative works, provided that all users and organizations meet the eligibility criteria outlined in this document.
2. Geographic Scope
This license is restricted to entities based in the United States. To qualify, an entity must:
Have a significant operational presence in the U.S.
Recognize and report revenue generated from PSL-licensed works in the U.S.
Pay applicable taxes in the U.S. in compliance with federal and state laws.
The intent of this provision is to create a robust, localized innovation ecosystem before considering global expansion.
3. State-Level Conditions and Accountability
In addition to national restrictions, this license includes state-level accountability mechanisms:
If companies in a particular state engage in unethical behavior or exploit loopholes, the license may impose restrictions on all entities within that state.
Companies within each state are incentivized to self-regulate and maintain ethical standards, ensuring collective accountability.
A state-wide suspension of license privileges may be lifted upon demonstration of corrective action and adherence to the license’s ethical guidelines.
4. Share-Alike Clause
All derivative works, modifications, or extensions of PSL-licensed works must be licensed under the same terms. This ensures that any improvements, adaptations, or innovations remain within the ecosystem, amplifying long-term benefits for all participants.
Key points of the share-alike requirement:
Any modified or derivative work must be shared openly under the PSL.
Companies may profit from their work but cannot lock contributions behind proprietary paywalls.
The intention is to create a compounding effect where contributions continuously enhance the collective ecosystem.
5. Prevention of Exploitation by Foreign Entities
To prevent foreign companies from circumventing the geographic scope of this license, the following requirements apply:
Companies must maintain substantial U.S. operations beyond just a legal shell.
A majority of intellectual property development must occur within the U.S.
Companies must adhere to fair taxation and revenue recognition practices to prevent abuse.
Failure to comply may result in revocation of license privileges.
6. Compliance and Enforcement
Misuse or violation of this license’s terms may result in:
Immediate suspension or termination of access to PSL-licensed resources.
A review by an oversight body to determine appropriate corrective measures.
Legal action if violations result in financial or reputational harm to the ecosystem.
7. Collective Responsibility
By using this license, companies acknowledge that their actions impact the entire ecosystem. Success or failure is a collective outcome, and ethical participation is required to maintain access. Organizations should:
Encourage ethical contributions and compliance within their industry.
Report violations or loopholes to ensure long-term sustainability.
Actively participate in improving the shared ecosystem rather than exploiting it.
8. Amendments and Evolution of the License
As the PSL ecosystem grows, modifications to the license may be made to address emerging challenges and opportunities. Updates will be communicated transparently, and continued participation in the ecosystem implies agreement with the latest version of the license.
Conclusion
The Positive Sum License is not just a legal document—it is a commitment to a new way of innovating, one that prioritizes collective success over individual gain. By agreeing to this license, companies and individuals are choosing to build a future where innovation thrives, collaboration is rewarded, and everyone benefits from an ever-expanding ecosystem of shared knowledge and technology.