[comp.os.vms] Hackers!

KFL@AI.AI.MIT.EDU ("Keith F. Lynch") (07/19/87)

> From: WILLIAMS_B%svax05.pfizer-central-research.co.uk@Cs.Ucl.AC.UK

> The trouble is, the word has now been corrupted... just as we can no
> longer refer to anyone as gay, meaning lighthearted & carefree, ...

> From: "VAXR::IVANOVIC" <ivanovic%vaxr.decnet@lll-icdc.arpa>

> I have always associated the term "hackers" with persons who
> commit crimes ... write ... spaghetti code ...

You may be right.  It is too late for "gay", and for "liberal" (the
original meaning).  Even "minority" is threatened.  I am going to
defend "hacker" for another year, and then throw in the towel if
it seems hopeless.

What do you mean "always"?  The computer usage isn't all that old.  I
"always" thought it was someone who drove a taxi.  Where did you get
the impression you did of the word "hacker"?  I am curious.
								...Keith