(E)ngineer (vs) (H)acker. A question as old as time. Which philosophy wins?
Our working definitions for this blog:
Engineer
- Design for any possibilities and all exceptions
- Rigorous and mathematically correct
- Looks pretty in UML
Hacker
A slang term for a computer enthusiast. Among professional programmers, the term hacker implies a programmer who lacks formal training. Depending on how it used, the term can be either complimentary or derogatory, although it is developing an increasingly derogatory connotation. (here)
3 responses so far ↓
Retrospector // Jan 11, 2007 at 9:54 am
I think engineer is typically known for having a structured and organized approach to building things. I see the hacker as having a more haphazard approach, but many times concentrating more on what’s really necessary to get the job done.
I like to equate that to the analogy that brilliant minds have messy desks. Not that I would discount organization in any respect…but perhaps in some cases the hackers just know where to focus their skills better than some of the engineers.
Olav2 // Jan 11, 2007 at 4:14 pm
That is exactly what we hope this blog will convey, both in points and counterpoints.
Thanks for the comment!
Olav2 // Jan 11, 2007 at 4:33 pm
Also, I just checked out your site, oodles of neat stuff. You’ve been bookmarked!
Leave a Comment