The FOSS community doesn't really have a single goal. Some people want a usable free desktop, others to get mass market share (see Ubuntu bug #1, for example). Some people have specific principles - like that science should run on open source code - others see money to be made from it.
These groups work together when their interests are aligned. Many people, for instance, have an interest in ensuring the Linux kernel works well. But the goal, and hence our success, depends on the individual.
These groups work together when their interests are aligned. Many people, for instance, have an interest in ensuring the Linux kernel works well. But the goal, and hence our success, depends on the individual.