> My usual solution to the problems Python's significant indentation solves would just be to fire people who lack such attention to detail that they cannot lear

> My usual solution to the problems Python's significant indentation solves would just be to fire people who lack such attention to detail that they cannot learn to format code nicely, though. While I might not go as far as you here (firing), I think your underlying point about attention to detail is entirely correct and generally doesn't get the attention it deserves. Lack of attention to detail re code style issues is probably an early (i.e. obvious) indicator for lack of attention to detail in other more important areas. (Note: I say indicator, because it's entirely possible the developer just doesn't care about code style, or has a different preference, yet still has attention to detail for other more important areas)