Hello all; I am a freelance journalist and long-time user of Linux and other UNIX derivatives.
Currently, I am developing a piece on hackers; moreover, I am attempting to <correctly> define that misnomer. It seems that a society afraid has incorrectly placed the libel upon a group of people that others cannot understand, or simply choose otherwise. I know of many 'hackers' that prefer themselves 'crackers', leaving the hacking to those who initially code the software that crackers try to break. The existence of the misnomer, however, does provide for an interesting paradox in terms: despite their intrinsic differences, hackers and crackers are indeed one in the same, for both are fascinated with the rules of a system and with the attempt to make or break their respective equilibria. Perhaps, then, the art of hacking is not solely about the Alpha and Omega of a Digital Creation, but refers rather to the mentality of such an Omnipotent. Hacking is about knowing the rules, and using those rules to reach an objective. It is as though one is bound in chains, unable to move and avoid certain doom. To survive, the prisoner must pick his proverbial lock, rid himself of the chains, and wield those chains as weapons. Often, our instruments of restraint serve to free us from captors. From the Linux community, I am searching for quotes to support my thesis. The essay is intended for an audience that is not technically inclined; after all, it is an uneducated society that prompted this attempt. The piece will take the flavor of the typical compare/contrast often felt in High School writings, but with an atypical, often transcendental tone. Please address all responses directly to me, or carbon copy them to myself in addition to this mailing list. In advance, I thank you for your time, consideration, and aid. Kris Kerwin -- [EMAIL PROTECTED] mailing list
