Chapter 4 - Hacking and the Passion for Knowledge

Abstract

This chapter presents a discussion on hacking and the passion for knowledge. The chapter begins with the popular image of hackers as “evil geniuses,” invading board rooms and bedrooms at will. Real hackers are distinguished not only by antisocial tendencies but also by their hunger for knowledge. Hackers do not accept conventional explanations; they want to know, see, and feel things for themselves. The only way to do that, they believe, is by entering complex systems of information technology and looking around. Hackers are not criminals; they can be real hackers and crackers or criminal hackers. Crackers use hacking skills to commit fraud, destroy or steal intellectual property, and vandalize the information systems of governments and businesses. Hackers, spies, and journalists resemble one another. Hacking is curiosity, playfulness, and problem solving and is motivated by the pleasure of browsing.