Linux creator Linus Torvalds has firmly shut down attempts to introduce an anti-AI stance within the Linux kernel development community. In a recent exchange on the Linux kernel mailing list, Torvalds clarified that the project remains focused on technical merit rather than social or ideological positioning regarding generative AI.
The discussion was sparked by a post referencing the Software Freedom Conservancy’s recommendations for using LLM-backed systems in FOSS contributions. The thread specifically touched on the use of Sashiko, a tool designed for the agentic review of Linux kernel code changes. While some developers argued for strict verification and triage processes—or questioned the use of LLMs altogether—Torvalds stepped in to provide a definitive directive.
A Focus on Technical Utility
Addressing the community, Torvalds stated, "I realize that some people really dislike AI, but this is an area where I'm willing to absolutely put my foot down as the top-level maintainer." He emphasized that the kernel project is not a "social warrior" project and that its primary purpose is the advancement of technology.
Torvalds highlighted that the utility of AI in development is no longer a matter of debate. "It may not have been that 'clearly' even just a year ago, but it's no longer in question today," he wrote. "Anybody who doubts that clearly hasn't actually used it."
Addressing Maintainer Workload
While acknowledging that AI tools can sometimes increase the workload for maintainers or surface "embarrassing bugs," Torvalds argued that the solution is not to ignore the technology. Instead, he suggested the focus should be on refining those tools to better assist maintainers.
"We're not forcing anybody to use it, but I will very loudly ignore people who try to argue against other people from using it," Torvalds added. He noted that while AI is not perfect, natural human input is also prone to error. Ultimately, he framed the inclusion of AI as a pragmatic decision: "In the kernel community we do open source because it results in better technology, not because of religious reasons."
For those within the developer community who remain deeply opposed to the integration of AI tools, Torvalds offered a blunt alternative: "If somebody has issues with that, they can do the open-source thing and fork it. Or just walk away."