Programmers’ Perspective: Evaluating Non-Coders’ Claims of Expertise

Discussions often revolve around the capabilities and knowledge of individuals who claim to be technologically adept without actually coding. The question at hand is: What is the opinion of programmers on such behavior, and how common is this among non-programmers?

The Broad Scope of "Being Good with Computers"

“Computers” is a broad topic. People can be skilled in assembling them from parts or understanding common troubleshooting without being professional developers. It's different from claiming a broad skillset, like basketball, without basic knowledge. However, it's not uncommon for someone to be wrong, which applies to virtually any claim.

The Fallacy of “Coder Tech Lord”

This misconception that coding equates to being a tech expert is prevalent, often referred to as the “coder tech lord” fallacy. There are two distinct areas of expertise: coding and general technical knowledge. Many people struggle to differentiate between the two.

As a programmer myself, such assumptions are frustrating. Many individuals assume I know everything related to technology and computers, which is far from the truth. It's surprising how many people don't grasp this simple distinction.

Handling Irresponsible Claims

Such claims can come from both newcomers and seasoned non-programmers. In my experience, the best approach is to listen and not challenge them. If you feel the need to address the inaccuracy, do it politely without causing conflict.

Ignoring the inaccuracy is often the best strategy if they don't cause significant harm. However, there are rare instances where such behavior can be more problematic. For example, some individuals assert that a particular operating system is superior to Windows and insult those who prefer or work with Microsoft. In such cases, it's reasonable to address the issue.

Real-Life Examples and Personal Experiences

I have encountered numerous situations where people make claims about their technical prowess without any coding experience. This can range from knowing how to build a computer to knowing how to troubleshoot Windows issues. In most cases, it's best to let them speak and then gently redirect the conversation or move on.

There is one experience that stands out. Over the years, I had conversations with individuals who insisted that a specific operating system was better than Windows and proceeded to insult me for my expertise in Microsoft development. Despite knowing their preferred OS and even having experience in other environments, some still hold such views and show disrespect. This situation remains a source of frustration.

Conclusion

The behavior of claiming expertise in technology without coding experience is not uncommon among non-programmers. While it can be frustrating, it's important to maintain a professional and polite demeanor. Understanding the distinction between coding and general tech knowledge is crucial to having meaningful discussions in the tech community.