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That wouldn't work, because each distro stores files in slightly different locations.

Besides that, what system will we use? Not every user will like every system. Sure, things would be "great" if we only had one of everything, as long as its the things you like. Believe me, I'd hate if I was forced to use KDE or RPM. I'd probably quit using OSS. Just because I don't like them though, I don't run around saying they shouldn't exist like you.

That's just ideological. There's also technical issues with a single package solution. Most applications can be built with different types of support. For example, GAIM can be built with or without spelling support, Mozilla with or without Xft/GTK2, Rhythmbox with a variety of audio backends, etc, etc. There are also a variety of patches that are applied to packages. Each distro chooses the best configuration for them and their users. I like to use the XINE backend for rhythmbox, so I would hate to have a gstreamer version shoved down my throat.

Every distribution isn't trying to impress the "desktop user". For every desktop distro out there, there are two "other" distros (advanced, server, source based, embedded, etc). Are you saying these distros should all have the same configuration/packages?


If you've had issues with out of date packages, you aren't using the right distribution. Off the top of my head, I know Debian, Gentoo, Source Mage, and ArchLinux all have very well stocked and very up to date repositories. I get new versions within a week on Arch. You shouldn't have to compile anything yourself.

And besides, if you don't rely on the package mainainters, you have to rely on the developer. That's stupid. He's busy writing the code, he doesn't have time to make/test 20 different packages.