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What if you just like learning about how objects are made? I'm fascinated with the creative process... Suddenly we're being told, as geeks, that seeking understanding is wrong?! I really don't get it.

I will make sure that I stick to appropriately cool objects and product design that doesn't include flatware.



Your point about the coolness of the object is well taken, but I feel the same way about fast cars, neat smart phones, and camping supplies.


Is there no kind of object that speaks to you in a way that you invest non-trivial amounts of time in learning about it? Serious question.


Ahh, yes there is. I owned a school bus for a year and a half, and spent waaaay too much time improving it. Installing speakers, 120 V power, etc. It was fun, but definitely a waste. I was pretty unhappy at the time, and it was sort of a therapeutic project.

I'm not trying to say that we don't all have our vices, or that it's terrible if we concentrate inwardly on ourselves from time to time. I just don't like to see that behavior justified or elevated.


It was fun, but definitely a waste

I'll leave you with one of my favorite quotes: "The time you enjoy wasting is not wasted time" --Bertrand Russell


Well, sure, if you consider "make yourself happy" to be a reasonable life goal, then there's nothing wrong with materialism...


Perhaps a piece of software?




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