March 3, 2026
When “No” means IDK
Computer Says No
AI writes the code, humans shrug: “Computer says no” vibes everywhere
TLDR: A columnist warns that letting AI write code could erase hands-on understanding and turn software into a mystery box. Commenters spar: some fear losing craft, others say AI can explain itself, and pragmatists urge treating AI as a guided tool—while jokers blame Apple—because knowing why tech fails still matters.
Sociologist Richard Sennett talks about “hands that think,” and a new Dutch column warns that if AI writes our software, that human feel for the work fades. The community? Split between panic, practicality, and punchlines. One camp nods hard: coding is how developers learn the real-world stuff behind the app. If machines take the wheel, everything becomes a black box, and “Computer says no” becomes the norm. Another commenter pushes back on the premise entirely, asking what “business context” even means in this debate, hinting that the column is mixing metaphors.
Enter the real drama: “It’s not just AI—it’s management.” One dev admits they lost touch with code the second they got promoted; time and documentation starved their craft. Others go full optimist: AI can actually explain why it said no, turning error messages into plain English. Then the pragmatists crash the party: use AI like a super keyboard, not a blindfold—iterate, architect, and keep humans close enough to jump in anytime. And yes, the meme factory runs hot: “If your computer says No, ditch it and buy a non-Apple,” quips one commenter, turning a deep craft debate into an Apple vs. everyone joke. Internet, never change.
Key Points
- •The column applies Richard Sennett’s concept of “material consciousness” to software, emphasizing knowledge gained through hands-on interaction.
- •It argues that machines can increase distance from the material; outsourcing coding to computers can reduce developers’ feel for code.
- •Coding is described as how software engineers understand system structure, limits, feasibility, and discover new possibilities.
- •The author warns that AI taking over coding may erode tacit knowledge and make products black boxes for users and engineers.
- •New skills in directing AI agents may arise, but the piece contends these won’t replicate the deep understanding built through coding, leading to more unexplained “computer says no” outcomes.