> So, the ethos that one shouldn't "waste effort in writing this stuff from scratch, but that off-the-shelf components should be used" is the kind of ethos that

> So, the ethos that one shouldn't "waste effort in writing this stuff from scratch, but that off-the-shelf components should be used" is the kind of ethos that can be applied to a lot of things. And usually when that kind of ethos is adopted, it tends to lead to stuff like stagnation and lack of innovation. I think the advice still has its place, but only in certain contexts. You can get a lot of work done very quickly by making good use of work that others have already done for you. It's why modules and libraries are so popular. When you've got the time to try and and improve on existing code, or when you'd have to compromise too much on what you want by using something preexisting, or when you're just learning then reinventing the wheel is invaluable. There's a time and place for both.