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Security people are often the black-and-white kind of…

“Security people are often the black-and-white kind of people that I can't stand. I think the OpenBSD crowd is a bunch of masturbating monkeys, in that they make such a big deal about concentrating on security to the point where they pretty much admit that nothing else matters to them.” quote by Linus Torvalds
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“Security people are often the black-and-white kind of people that I can't stand. I think the OpenBSD crowd is a bunch of masturbating monkeys, in that they make such a big deal about concentrating on security to the point where they pretty much admit that nothing else matters to them.”

Linus Torvalds

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Security-focused developers can seem overly rigid, ignoring broader concerns.

In simple terms: Security obsession may limit perspective.

Key Takeaway

Balance security with broader goals.

Themes

security software development culture focus

Mood

critical analytical

Type

technical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • system design
  • team management
  • project planning
  • security audits

Key Concepts

risk management community dynamics technical philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can security be integrated without dominating?
  • What trade‑offs are acceptable?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on security can stifle innovation.

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