Why craft-lovers are losing their craft
writings.hongminhee.org
March 22, 2026
6 min read
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50/100
Summary
LLM coding assistants have exposed a division between "craft-lovers" and "make-it-go" developers that previously went unnoticed. This change highlights the differing motivations behind software development work, despite the processes remaining identical.
Key Takeaways
- The introduction of LLM coding assistants has revealed a pre-existing divide between developers who value the process of coding and those who prioritize the end result.
- Many craft-lovers feel alienated from the act of coding due to LLMs, as they mourn the loss of the intentional creation process that they once cherished.
- The market currently penalizes developers who prefer traditional coding methods, pushing them away from their craft.
- The concept of alienated labor, as defined by Marx, is relevant in understanding the emotional responses of developers to the use of LLM coding assistants.
Community Sentiment
Positives
- AI empowers users by allowing them to create software tailored to their specific needs, breaking free from constraints imposed by traditional software developers.
- Craft individuals are becoming more valuable as they possess the skills to refine and fix AI-generated outputs, ensuring quality and precision in software development.
Concerns
- The rise of AI tools may lead to a dilution of craftsmanship, as more people rely on automated solutions instead of honing their skills in software development.
- The analogy of photography suggests that while technology democratizes access, it may also result in a loss of expertise and meaningful engagement in creative processes.
