I think it’s worth noting that “database-centric” and “app-centric” notions of databases are both found in the wild. That’s how I remembered the difference betw

I think it’s worth noting that “database-centric” and “app-centric” notions of databases are both found in the wild. That’s how I remembered the difference between MySQL and PostgreSQL—MySQL was what happened when a bunch of app developers needed a database, and it was extremely popular e.g. with the PHP webdev crowd. If you needed to access the database, you went through the app. PostgreSQL is what happened when DBAs designed a database. If you needed access to the database, you connected to the database. A lot of other databases can be understood this way… like how MongoDB further shifts database concepts into the application. (Honestly I’m definitely in your camp… if I need a database, design the database first, then write the code.)