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< Being a programmer in a world with fewer computers

I think we won't have a future with fewer computers, but with more hidden ones.

I was reading about a future when we know less about the magical algorithms that surround us. They are becoming mystical forces, like gods for previous cultures. Why does the rain fall? Maybe it's a god of the rain.

For instance GPS and Navigation. Nobody cares about understanding how a satellite works, but we cannot reach anyplace without it. How does it work? Well, it's the god of Navigation.

As we require them to 'survive' a lot of mental and actual energy will be used to keep them alive.

That rant being said, some rebels will live with less technology. Rebeling to what everyone uses (like rebeling to the religion of a whole country). It's a painful truth to me.

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~eaplmx wrote:

So, enough ranting... Now, actual solutions.

First, we should fight against Planned obsolescence, preferring products with an extended life, and avoid that much waste.

Then, avoid using trendy systems, and going for stable ones. OS, languages, platforms. Or at least understanding it's advantages. Yes, I know having a powerful computer in your hand is convenient, and only a few USD to have one. What about learning how to use open technologies? And asking our friends to use them. I mean the soft and hard parts of technology.

Applied to programming (which I love), I would suggest to teach on electronic systems, along with computers, and teaching how to solve actual information problems.