Our world is run by programs written in code in one or several languages. We increasingly use data that we visualize to interpret, read trends, and “drive” decisions. Code, data sets, and databases are themselves observable, culturally determined objects, often even observable as aesthetic objects. It’s time for us to start thinking about the cultural aspects of code, databases, and other “under the hood” digital manifestations: How are they written, in what conditions? How does code circulate? Where is the creative gesture in programming or developing a database? What kills programming languages? Etc. Let’s talk about what it means to start reading our culture in its increasingly digital, raw materials.
