Some of the code in the libre software I use every day is 30+ years old. And if you're on a BSD you have code in your kernel copyright 1979. The modern softwa

Some of the code in the libre software I use every day is 30+ years old. And if you're on a BSD you have code in your kernel copyright 1979. The modern software environment works, I think, just from the sheer quantity of useful building and patch materials. To run with the building metaphor, it's like having specialized supplies on-hand so you can throw up a passable shed in a weekend with just duct tape and a screwdriver.