Introduction

As a seasoned software engineer, I often find myself skeptical of blanket statements that unfairly or unnecessarily restrict the freedom of others. When it comes to trends or movements like the ones being discussed, it is important to critically examine the underlying rationale and consider the nuanced realities of our industry.

The Skepticism of Absolute Rhetoric

It is true that any trend that says “don’t” to everyone is often met with a level of skepticism. This kind of rhetoric, while sometimes originating from well-intentioned sources aiming to provide direction and clarity, can indeed come across as authoritarian and dogmatic. For experienced software engineers, such rigid instructions are often a turn-off, as they know that every topic and practice in software development is far more nuanced than a single, absolute suggestion could ever cover.

Impact on Less Skilled Developers

For less skilled developers, the danger of such authoritative statements grows even more significant. When they are learning, clear and strict rules tend to be a huge advantage. If someone takes this type of advice seriously, it could hinder their progress and hinder their ability to understand the subtleties of programming and software development. It is crucial that we recognize and address this potential pitfall to help new developers grow and develop sound judgment.

The Need for Balanced Guidance

Ultimately, as an industry, we must stop perpetuating this overly prescriptive and zealous nonsense. Instead, we should embrace the idea that there is nuance and many sides to every subject. The goal should be to provide balanced and thoughtful guidance that acknowledges both the risks and the benefits of various practices.

Design Patterns as Tools

Let’s take design patterns, for example. Design patterns are valuable tools in a software engineer’s arsenal, much like a set of basic tools in a carpenter's kit. Just as a carpenter would not suggest that you never use an adjustable wrench, we should recognize that design patterns, while useful, are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Not every problem calls for a design pattern, and not every pattern is suitable for every situation.

Statements like “don’t use design patterns” are not a movement; they are misguided and potentially harmful oversimplifications. Instead, we should aim to provide more nuanced advice such as: "Don’t use design patterns when they’re not needed or not appropriate. Use them when appropriate, and learn the important ones in your domain so that you can recognize them and know when to apply them."

Conclusion

As a software development professional, it is important to maintain a balanced perspective. By acknowledging the nuances of our field and providing clear, balanced guidance, we can help both new and experienced developers understand the value and proper use of design patterns and other best practices. Let’s continue to promote the idea that there is no one-size-fits-all solution and that the key to success is adaptability and flexibility in our approach to software engineering.