The Psychology of Computer Programming

by Gerald M. Weinberg

When we do read code, we find that some of it gets written because of machine limitations, some because of language limitations, some because of programmer limitations, some because of historical accidents, and some because of specifications—both essential and inessential.

Fisher's Fundamental Theorem states—in terms appropriate to the present context—that the better adapted a system is to a particular environment, the less adaptable it is to new environments.

The argument behind cognitive dissonance theory is quite simple. In the experiment just outlined, both groups of subjects have had to perform an act—writing an essay against their own opinions—which they would not under ordinary circumstances like to do. Arguing for what one does not believe is classed as "insincerity" or "hypocrisy," neither of which is highly valued in our society. Therefore, a dissonance situation is created. The subject's self-image as a sincere person is challenged by the objective fact of his having written the essay. Dissonance, according to the theory, is an uncomfortable and unstable state for human beings, and; must therefore be quickly resolved in one way or another. To resolve a dissonance, one factor or another contributing to it must be made to yield. Which factor depends on the situation, but, generally speaking, it will not be the person's self-image. That manages to be preserved through the most miraculous arguments.

When Parkinson said that "work expands to fill the time allotted," he was making us aware that the very existence of schedule goals can influence the rate of work. But now we see that the very existence of schedule as a goal can influence "the time allotted."

If the poor workman hates his tools, the good workman hates poor tools.