Greed: The Heritage of Computing

I am so tired of the cheesy version of the rise of computing in the U.S during the late 20th century. The tale of Jobs, Wozniak, Gates, etc. changing the world with their "nerdiness" will be familiar to many of us. But like so many others famously depicted as the good guys in Western culture, these "computer geniuses" are only heroes in a very contrived and self-serving context. The classic depiction is of some unassuming young people, coming from nothing, destined change the world forever--the perfect reflection of the American Dream. It is so corny, such a tale ought to immediately raise eyebrows at what turns out to be just the braggy version of an inevitable progression for personal computing. During the short period of time which was pivotal to the industry, the question wasn't about if it would happen or when, but who would be recognized for it when the dust settled. There was enough involvement around this change that its players consisted not of the well-intentioned hobbyists playing for fun, but rather those whose egos were invested to become the recognized champion--it is the difference between athletes who play sports recreationally, versus those whose incomes and brand appeal depend upon it. Let me put it this way instead: if the motivation were purely that the journey be completed, that society progresses and with no egos at stake, it makes no difference who carried the computer industry to the goal--contrast this to the heated competition which betrays just how much its contenders regarded this journey as rather a competitive race, incentivized by actual boons awarded by society to its victor.

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