I tried to download Debian linux using TORRENT from
*cdimage.debian.org/debian-cd/3.1_r2/i386/bt-cd/
But to my supprise there 18 such torrent CDs files available.
Is Debian really a 1.5 DOZEN CD Operating System?
Debian contains so many cd's cos it has so many softwares bundled via cd. It is more feasible for those who do not have a broadband connection or no connection at all.
I guess you've never understood about linux. It is just a 400 kb or so kernel. And what makes it an OS is whatever GNU/non-GNU software you add to it. So, no debian is not that huge. It's just that debian contains more Open Source packages bundled right in the cd as compared to any other distro out there.
The first 4 should do for a basic install
Will I still be able to get all GUI tools?
You will be able to use GUI. What do you mean by all. There's no distro that gives all GUI tools. There always has to be something or other that has to be left out. But, yes the system will be usable with GUI.
