I kindof like these thoughts from a Slashdot poster:
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Rational is not bound under the legal restrictions that Microsoft is when it comes to Java.

I read this paragraph, and it only vaguely disturbed me. I don't think Rational would do anything even vaguely Microsoftesque, but I had to ask myself: what do I know about Rational?

Things I know about Rational:
They make Rational Rose, a UML design tool.
One of the guys who works there (owns it?) invented/helped make UML
They've got an interest in tools for Java (the non-trial version of Rational Rose can be configured for Java instead of C++)
I've never heard of Rational trying to subvert or destroy other, smaller companies. I could be wrong here, as I'm just stating from my own failing recollection. But I think the fact that UML itself is a compendum of earlier models (authorized by the people that made them, IIRC), rather than an 'embrace and extend' helps with this impression.

Looks interesting enough, so I asked the next question: What do I know about Microsoft?

Things I know about Microsoft:

Come on, that's too easy.

My point here is, are we dealing with a question of the devil we know versus the devil we don't, or will Rational's track record continue its trend and leave Java alone?
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