Why I Don't Know Any Good Programmers

For one to know that they themselves are wrong...is a paradox. In Computer Science, where illusory superiority is widespread, most people think they're better programmers than average. However it is impossible for one to know whether they are an expert, or else just a delusional novice (in terms of The Orders of Ignorance, one cannot distinguish between their having 0OI or 2OI ignorance). Keep this in mind when you criticize a colleague's work--there's a chance you'll be in the wrong and, despite your "superior experience," you show yourself to be overattentive to trivial issues or enduringly retentive of false dogmas; or else your listener may lack the point of reference necessary to appreciate even valid suggestions, making your criticism nonconstructive. Humility marks the development of self-awareness in a Computer Scientist, egotism being frivolous, even detrimental, to efforts to reduce one's self-ignorance. The development of self-awareness will manifest itself as empathy, rather than belittlement, towards colleagues. Just to be clear, empathy does not necessarily mean you're already a "good programmer," but whatever your skill, empathy is conducive toward improvement. Just as physical strength depends on good bodily health, mental prowess depends on healthy cognition.

Comments

  1. CotcanNovember 19, 2020 at 12:26 AM

    Too often people just want to come across as being right. Far too many internet arguments have been fought more for pride than to actually come to new understandings. I'm glad you brought up the orders of ignorance. It's okay to not know something or to find out you are wrong. Coming to understand that there's so much we don't know helps to put you in a place where you will be receptive to learn and to change. Humanity hasn't gotten to where we are today because we weren't willing to learn and make changes accordingly.

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  2. Chris ParkerNovember 22, 2020 at 5:22 PM

    I really enjoyed this post. I think if more people were slower to criticize, especially outside the workplace, it would make the world a better place. There are some exceptions, but I believe that for most people their biggest critic is themselves and they don't need others to pile on with nonconstructive criticism. Thanks for sharing.

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