[JohnFen]

> I don't think there is anything wrong in principle with Ubuntu collecting user data if they openly communicate it to their users.

As long as it's opt-in, I agree.

> I do not agree with this Stallman-esque usage of the term spyware, if the exchange of data is voluntary

Being truly voluntary is key. If that's the case, then I agree with this. However, if data is being collected about me or the hardware/software that I'm using without my affirmative consent, that completely qualifies as "spying".