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I was once given a somewhat peculiar reason by a biologist for not learning computer programming: "Computer programming is overrated, it's the 'learning to pla

I was once given a somewhat peculiar reason by a biologist for not learning computer programming: "Computer programming is overrated, it's the 'learning to play guitar' of the geek world." This article reminded me of it.

marvin 15y ago
I think that's too narrow, it should be the "learning to play a musical instrument" of the geek world. With music theory overlapping Computer Science theory, and with various technical skills (mixing, rigging, mastering) corresponding to domain knowledge in various fields. So these skills would be a prerequisite for doing anything that has to do with computers and computation. Definitely not overrated.
r00fus 15y ago
That biologist is foolish - not unlike a biologist friend I had in college. All about numbers and "physical reality" when the psychological, mental and spiritual reality can be far more determinate for a person's behaviors and outcomes than pure biological data. Mastery of music gives you keys to people's emotions. Likewise, code gives you the keys to the world of information. They are both powerful and profitable if you know how to use them.