Everything Quote by Ellen Ullman
“It's possible to let technology absorb what we know and then re-express it in intricate mechanisms - parts and circuit boards and software objects - mechanisms we can use but do not understand in crucial ways. This not-knowing is fine while everything works as we expected.”
About This Quote
Technology can encapsulate knowledge in complex systems we use without fully understanding, which is acceptable as long as they function as expected.
In simple terms: We use tech we don’t fully grasp if it works.
Key Takeaway
Seek understanding of tools you rely on.
Themes
technology
knowledge
complexity
Mood
concerned
inquisitive
Type
technical
reflective
When to use this quote
- software development
- IT management
- education
Key Concepts
systems theory
engineering ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- What do you not understand about your tools?
- How can you improve transparency?
A Different Perspective
Blind reliance can cause hidden failures.
![“I've always written. I'm from an older generation of programmers [who] did not come out of engineering. [A]ll sorts of people were drawn in from the social sciences and humanities.” quote by Ellen Ullman](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/341/ellen-ullman-3943_engineering_i-ve-always-written-i-m-from-an-older-ge_363898.jpg)
