\(\textbf{the #fun of it all}\)
In #Mathematics, a mathematician creates new mathematics by starting with what is already known, making incremental tweaks thereto in a systematic way, and deriving new results in the subfield, which sometimes gives a new perspective on the very foundations of the entire discipline. The mathematician finds this work intellectually rewarding, despite its intensely rigorous nature and its necessity to conform with the mass of knowledge that is centuries old.
In #EE, an electrical engineer implements a solution by first analysing the problem, the requirements, and the economics of the domain in which he is working; then selecting an optimal solution, deriving the design mathematically, analysing the performance and fitness of the prototype, iterating if necessary, verifying that the prototype meets the requirements and complies with the applicable regulations; and finally overseeing the production manufacturing process. Despite the rigour of the mathematical process and the restraints of the governing regulations, the engineer finds this work intellectually rewarding.
In #CS, a computer scientist follows a mathematically rigorous process in designing new algorithms or defining new academic subfields. The computer scientist finds the solitary research and the communal sharing of knowledge intellectually rewarding.
How do modern #IT practitioners derive their intellectual reward, in the face of unrealistic time and budget pressures, cut-and-paste culture on StackOverflow fora, push-the-button culture of LLM code generators, countless undocumented development frameworks, and having to fix billion lines of rotting buggy old code that no one understands any longer?
@ambihelical You managed to find the optimal path in your career, because you have gained, through hard work, the all-essential experience, skill, and judgement. But I was speaking of the young practitioners without the benefit of years of perspective.
By the way, most of my posts are pointed at the junior-level people. Often, though, only the senior-level folks possess the perspective necessary to grasp what I say. My goal is not to arrogantly admonish the seniors nor to callously confuse the juniors; no one is inhered with such rights. I only aim to bring the two groups together into discussions that may benefit both by thinking more deeply about one's own biases and predilections—to gain a fresh perspective, if you will.