In software, sure, reasoning from first principles is likely to work. With older traditions, it could just as easily lead you to just-so stories and other false

In software, sure, reasoning from first principles is likely to work. With older traditions, it could just as easily lead you to just-so stories and other false explanations, such as the endless number of false etymologies which make all seasoned linguists deeply suspicious of any cute etymology, especially one which could be used to make a point.