I’m reading an interesting book that explores the sociology of hacking and the “hacker culture”. Written by Dr. Pekka Himanen with contributions from Linus Torvalds and Manuel Castells, the book is called The Hacker Ethic and the Spirit of the Information Age. Himanen’s thesis is that the concept of a “hacker” can be applied to more than just those who work with computers. Put generally, a “hacker” is “a person who wants to do something that one is passionate about, something in which one can realize oneself creatively, and something in which one can build things for the good of all.” The author contrasts this new ethic, or worldview, with the so-called “Protestant Ethic” that has dominated modern society for decades.

As a sociological treatise, The Hacker Ethic is highly persuasive. Over the past few years, much has been written about the “generation gap” that exists between those now entering the workforce and the established leadership they will work under. The fundamental divide, it would seem, concerns the generations’ perspectives on the nature and value of “work”. According to Himanen, the “hacker ethic” views work as valuable only to the extent that it satiates an individual’s need for intellectual rigor, provides an outlet for creative passions, and serves the greater good with some form of social benefit. This worldview parallels that which has been traditionally associated with art, music, and other cultural pursuits. Hackers, Himanen argues, view their craft (whatever it may be) in a similar light - programmers, for example, see great code as an expression of artistic passion while carpenters see a finely crafted frame or addition as a piece of artwork. Fundamentally, the hacker views his or her craft as something inherently valuable in the same way that those subscribing to the Protestant Ethic view work (in whatever form) as an undeniable Good.

For anyone who wants to better understand the impact of informationalism (to use a word that Himanen enjoys) on the underlying norms of our society, The Hacker Ethic is a highly recommended read. Linus’ introduction, which is adapted from a speech he gave while at a conference with Himanen, is nothing groundbreaking but it is one of his better essays that I have read. If you want to buy the book, it is available at both Amazon and ThinkGeek as well as most all other retailers. Keep in mind, however, that this is not a “techie” book - Himanen’s style is highly academic and his focus is on the sociology of hacking rather than its technological implications. Before picking this up, you might want to read a review by Stefani Ead of Business Week - while it isn’t exactly supportive of the book, the review does provide an accurate assessment of those who will find it fascinating and those who will yawn with boredom. All in all, a highly recommended read - three and a half out of four stars.