Programming is not a science. Programming is a craft

Programming is not a science. Programming is a craft

Richard Stallman, a prominent figure in the world of computer programming and open-source software, has long been an advocate for the idea that programming is not a science, but rather a craft. This perspective challenges the traditional view of programming as a purely technical and scientific discipline, and instead emphasizes the creative and artistic aspects of writing code.

Stallman's belief in programming as a craft is rooted in his own experiences as a programmer and software developer. He has often spoken about the importance of creativity, intuition, and problem-solving skills in the process of writing code. For Stallman, programming is not just about following a set of rules or algorithms, but about using one's imagination and ingenuity to create elegant and efficient solutions to complex problems.

One of the key aspects of programming as a craft, according to Stallman, is the idea of craftsmanship. Just as a skilled craftsman takes pride in their work and strives for excellence in every detail, a programmer should approach their code with the same level of care and attention to detail. This means writing clean, well-structured code, documenting their work thoroughly, and constantly seeking to improve their skills and knowledge.

Stallman's perspective on programming as a craft also highlights the importance of collaboration and community in the world of software development. He has been a vocal advocate for the principles of open-source software, which emphasize transparency, collaboration, and the sharing of knowledge and resources. By working together with other programmers and sharing their code with the wider community, programmers can learn from each other, build on each other's work, and create better software for everyone.