I can see that you're getting pretty passionate about this thread rogerjin and I repect that! I actually started this post to get the most honest feedback I could get and I want to thank you for it. Having said that, here's a purely hypothetical question. Up to what point can you say that it's okay to steal and idea? Say we hypothetically give this guy three years to launch his pet project. Three years later we meet him again and it's still not launched. Can we say that if he didn't develop it in three years then it's up for grabs? That he got his chance and the next guy should seize his opportunity? The reason why I'm saying this is because contrary to you, I believe that the line between what is moral and what is immoral is not always as clear as you suggest it is.
Thanks rajdesai225 your insight gives a fresh perspective on this topic. I hadn't thought about the bullet-proof conviction you're referring to and I believe you have a good point!
Thanks for your feedback rogerjin. I respect your point of view and agree that it's somewhat immoral, but given that I strongly believe that the person won't realize the project wouldn't it be dumb to reject a great venture purely on moral grounds? And as some people suggested ideas are out there and other people are probably working on a similar project as we speak. In the end if someone else succeeds with this idea wouldn't that person be stealing the idea as well?
Thanks for your reply mindcrime. You're right, we're going be upfront about it and see his reaction. If he's professional in his response and is willing to compromise we might consider working with him.
Thanks for your reply nickler. I totally agree with all the points you mentioned. Execution is key and you're right that there are probably twenty other teams working on a similar project. We'll probably clear our conscience first (asap) and build after (as fast as possible!).