Bloomberg Businessweek: Code: An Essay

by Paul Ford

Software has been around since the 1940s. Which means that people have been faking their way through meetings about software, and the code that builds it, for generations. Now that software lives in our pockets, runs our cars and homes, and dominates our waking lives, ignorance is no longer acceptable. The world belongs to people who code. Those who don’t understand will be left behind.

This issue comprises a single story devoted to ­demystifying code and the culture of the people who make it. There’s some technical language along with a few pretty basic mathematical concepts. There are also lots of solid jokes and lasting insights. It may take a few hours to read, but that’s a small price to pay for adding decades to your career.

—Josh Tyrangiel

Available online: http://www.bloomberg.com/graphics/201...
and in print.

Genres: Nonfiction

112 pages, Paperback

Reviews

[Alan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Paul is funny. His essay painted a somewhat clear, yet fun, picture of what it might mean to be in the world of programming, coding, and web development. As someone who is curious about this field (or world), it was helpful. His bit about TMitTB is hilarious. Also, what I was expecting to be a 15 minute read became a 4.8 hour read. Would read again, but will skim.

[Breanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everything an up and coming computer programmer needs to know about computer roots and low-level tech, coding and corporate culture, and the true nature of computer technology and its evolution/growth in our modern world (spoiler: it IS the modern world)! I looove technology and media and the people that make it. If this sounds like you, click over to this free Bloomberg page, it's interactive, gamified, and fun!