I’ve had this thought for a while and I definitely agree that a lot of software I’ve built is a net negative to society as a whole and the only reason why I get paid as well as I do is because I’m helping rich assholes suck value out of society more efficiently.
For instance, I’ve worked on CMSs that automated 90% of the processes for medium-large insurance companies. Sure, it may result in a marginal price reduction for insureds (lol), but it almost certainly has led to fewer staff being hired to the benefit of the overlords. If more and more middle-class white-collar jobs gets replaced by software, that helps put downward pressure on wages. At the end of it all, are the marginally lower prices worth it to society, when everyone has a lower wage or no well paying job forcing them to participate in the gig economy and such?
It’s a depressing thought, and I’ve been trying to break into research engineering roles or something of the sort to get away from my current role but it’s been an uphill task.
vulture_god@lemmy.dbzer0.com 2 years ago
Honestly at this point in my software career (~10 years), it’s not evil per se, but I don’t feel great about essentially existing to help rich people (VCs, PE, etc.) get richer. But I suppose that’s a problem that isn’t limited to IT.
RickyWars@lemmy.ca 2 years ago
Certainly not limited to IT. One of my professors from many years was an aerospace engineer^1^. He recounts to us the time that he busted his ass on some design for a long time and managed to save a ton of money with his design. And then after it was done he realized that all he really did with his extra hard work was help some executives and stockholders get richer. Not long after that he switched to education.
^1^Not in the defense industry
Quill7513@slrpnk.net 2 years ago
I kiss ass so I can get rich while my boss gets richer off me. Perhaps I’ll work harder with a gun in my back for a bowl of rice a day.