CSV is the embodiment of worse is better axiom. Anyone that has dealt with more than 1 CSV is aware of many of the aspects of their horrible nature. The more

CSV is the embodiment of worse is better axiom. Anyone that has dealt with more than 1 CSV is aware of many of the aspects of their horrible nature. The more interesting reason is why they're so damn successful. 1: network effect - not supporting CSV in a product is practically silly. everyone can do it why can't you? 2: ease of producing / consuming (not saying that you do it correctly in all cases :)) 3: data is transparent (or feels transparent) 4: accessible - if you can write language X you can parse or generate reasonable CSV in a mater of minutes. No knowledge of any libraries or tech required That said it's horrible - but it will always be with us.