DIY

Lately I have noticed a little increase in talk about "DIY" (do-it-yourself). In particular in the context of what has been called "hardware hacking". DIY is fairly self explanatory. Hardware hacking, on the other hand, may need an explanation. The "hacking" part is a reference to the eponymous software hackers (presumably the good kind - curious helpful experimenters that helped power our computer revolutions). The "hardware" part too initially referred to computer builders who assembled and customized their own PC's. This has been expanded.

The hardware hacker is now someone who is not content to accept what professional designers and manufacturers produce for us. Particularly, they resist the "closed" model - sealing the inner workings of the product so completely that it is extremely difficult for the user to "look inside" let alone to modify or extend something that they already have paid for and own. In effect: "I bought it and paid for it. It is mine, so why can I not use it, inside and out, as I see fit?" Very libertarian, but not at all unreasonable.

In part it is a reaction to the world being reduced to a digital form: books, movies, music and culture. All placed in the hands of people and institutions who, presumably, have your best interests at heart. And theirs too of course. This new crop of hardware hackers are enabled by a range of tools and services. You can buy a laser cutter (way expensive) or send a design to Ponoko who will cut it for you. You can buy a 3D printer kit for less that $1000 or you can send a design to Shapeways who will print it, in 3D, for you. You can download free design software (SketchUp or Blender). And there are a plethora of electronics and robotics web sites, like AdaFruit Industries to help you understand the mysteries of our electro-digital world.

It is interesting that the description of these people has become "DIY'ers." An indication perhaps of how malleable language is. DIY is nothing new. It used to be called self-sufficiency, and it was not an option. You and your neighbors had to have tools at the farm and know how to use them. Or things would not get done.

In my thinking though, there are three "making-modifying" archetypes.

First is the professional. Relatively speaking, I think the professional is a new-comer. Back in the day, go back before the 19th century, everyone did what they needed themselves. Using a professional was an exception, rather than a rule for ordinary folks. Kings and nobles of course always used professionals: the trained designers, craftspeople and manufacturers. But for the lesser classes? Do it yourself.

Then there are hobbyist and amateurs. In early days this depended on a certain level of wealth. You explore the mysteries of art and science for the joy of it - that makes you an amateur, a hobbyist. But you must have the means to do so, or a benefactor. Nowadays many people can pursue their interests. The "hardware hackers" are, to my way of thinking, in this category.

They are capable of making significant strides and discoveries that will be adopted more widely in the "professional" setting. At first, as usual, the professionals will attempt to protect their turf and insist that amateur work is polluting the fine work that has taken years to develop. So be it.

Which brings me back to DIY.

The hardware hacker, the amateur, the hobbyist are not DIY'ers. They do what they do for the love of it and habitually.

DIY acts more out of absolute self sufficiency (as in the rural farm) or voluntary self sufficiency (as in take care of one's own for the satisfaction of doing so) or out of economy (as in doing it better at lower cost). DIY is done out of needfulness, often the need of the moment. The toilet is cracked and so must be replaced now. It may be done frequently, or sporadically. One may prefer to DIY but that does not make it a hobby.

A professional plies his trade for money profit.

A hobbyist/amateur follows his inclination for satisfaction.

A DIY'er satisfies a need of the moment.

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