That was the caption on a satirical cover of New York Magazine (1970) showing a teenager in a wheelchair being pushed by a bejeweled woman with a very large mansion in the background.
Rephrase: “Why learn to write if I don’t plan on being a professional writer?” — more relevant, here, “Why learn about computers, programming, robotics, coding, etc. — if I don’t plan on that being my profession? I can hire folks to do all that.”
Most of us believe that knowing the “Three-Rs” is required to be a civilized/productive member of society. To what degree, is a judgement call that we all (or our parents) make. It’s just part of the fabric of life.
We need to add another “R”, now — for Robotics. Well, at least the computer programming part. Side benefit: Not only is there a dearth of competent programers now, but the demand is running away from the supply.
That’s good, but my main argument for learning the basics of programming is that it is becoming more and more a part of so many activities. We’re at the “Model T” stage now. Knowing how to program will be as important as knowing how to write.
Understanding the underpinnings of robotics will give you more options. Even if you become a salesperson or financier, the chance that you’ll be involved with robotics will increase. Knowing the basics (just like having good speaking and writing skills) will be valuable.
But, if you get more technically involved, understanding the fundamentals will give you a distinct advantage. You will not have to unlearn the bad, limiting habits.
So, as I’ve said before, why not learn these methods and procedures from the beginning? I plan to help with that.
Again, stay tuned.
