Readings

The readings for Tuesday, January 24 are:

1. Hackers: Heroes of the Computer Revolution

   • Part Two. HARDWARE HACKERS

Writings

The second part of Hackers: Heroes of the Computer Revolution is entitled "Hardware Hackers" and discusses a second wave of hackers who sought to "tak[e] the Hacker Ethic to the streets ... [and] promote a version of the hacker dream that would ... spread the computer gospel through, all things, the marketplace".

In your second blog post, write a reflection that does the following:

• Compares and contrast the "True Hackers" and the "Hardware Hackers". What did they have in common? How were they different? How did they view each other?

• Discuss how the desire to "dissipate the 'aura of elitism, and even mysticism, that surrounds the world of technology'" manifested itself by describing a few examples from the readings.

• Discuss the tensions that emerged as the Hacker Ethic spread beyond "the limited, monastic communities around the machine, to a world where the machines were everywhere" via commercialization.

• Reflect on your thoughts regarding the emergence of a social conscience in the "Hardware Hackers":

  • Do you agree with Lee Felsenstein that technology can be a force for good, or do you side with Efrem Lipkin that is a dangerous tool of oppression?

  • Should you, or do you consider the ethical, moral, and social impact of the technology you use and create? Explain.