I decry the current tendency to seek patents on algorithms. There are better ways to earn a living than to prevent other people from making use of one's contributions to computer science.

Meta-design is much more difficult than design; it's easier to draw something than to explain how to draw it.

Computer programming is an art, because it applies accumulated knowledge to the world, because it requires skill and ingenuity, and especially because it produces objects of beauty. A programmer who subconsciously views himself as an artist will enjoy what he does and will do it better.

Programs are meant to be read by humans and only incidentally for computers to execute.

Random numbers should not be generated with a method chosen at random

Programming is the art of telling another human being what one wants the computer to do.

The enjoyment of one's tools is an essential ingredient of successful work.