A Programmer's Oath - Part 04 - Another amateur's attempt at an oath


“ Programming, as a profession, is of great importance to society. Other professions with similar importance have oaths and codes of conduct to guide the professionals in their field, like M.D’s and lawyers. This has benefited their professions in many ways, like taking the lead in the creation of legislature.”

(Read my extended summary of Uncle Bob’s presentation)

Inspired by Uncle Bob I'm taking a glance at an oath for programmers. Why is it important? How can we build on the experience in other professions? What role could an oath play?

After 3 other posts, here is my attempt at a Programmer’s Oath. It is an adjusted copy of the Declaration of Geneva, the most widely sworn oath. I’m quite happy with the outcome. Still, like code, any oath it should be properly reviewed.

In programming the direct subjects of our work are the programs we create. An oath shouldn’t be complicated by including possible patrons (e.g. employer, open source community). A programmer, like a MD, can have many different patrons. This shouldn't make a difference in the execution of a programmer's profession.

In my opinion the oath shouldn't focus on code itself. An oath shouldn't become an in depth work instruction or code of conduct. Like documentation on an interface, the underlying implementation should be allowed to differ. But hey, just tell me in the comment section how you feel about it.


AS A MEMBER OF THE GUILD OF PROGRAMMING:

I SOLEMNLY PLEDGE to dedicate my life to the creation of software in the service of humanity.

THE STABILITY AND LONGEVITY OF THE SOFTWARE I CREATE will be my first consideration

I WILL RESPECT the autonomy and dignity of the users of programs.

I WILL MAINTAIN the utmost respect for human life.

I WILL NOT PERMIT any factor to intervene between my duty and the programs I create.

I WILL RESPECT AND SECURE the secrets that are confided in me.

I WILL PRACTICE my profession with conscience and dignity in accordance to good programming practice.

I WILL FOSTER the freedom and inventive spirit of the programming profession.

I WILL GIVE to my teachers, colleagues, and students the respect and gratitude that is their due.

I WILL SHARE my programming knowledge for the benefit of my programs and the advancement of software development.

I WILL ATTEND TO my own health, well-being and abilities in order to create programs of the highest standard.

I WILL NOT USE my programming knowledge to violate human rights and civil liberties, even under threat.

I MAKE THESE PROMISES solemnly, freely and upon my honor.





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