Re: How much longer..

[Shawn Morris <shawn () smorris com>]

On Thu, Aug 14, 2003 at 02:17:08PM +0100, variable () ednet co uk wrote:
> On Thu, 14 Aug 2003, St. Clair, James wrote:
>
> > Cars did not become more popular because owners had to learn how to swap
> > more parts. 
>
> The good ole "computers as cars" metaphor.  In the UK:
>  
> 1) In order to drive a car, you have to have a license.
                 ^^^^^

Yes, I have to understand how to operate a car.  I don't need to know
how to change my oil.  Also, at least in the United States one must have
a very limited understanding of driving.  There is no real testing of
driving in anything other than normal condititions.

> 2) In order to have the car on the road, you have to have it taxed and 
> have a qualified mechanic certify it for basic road worthiness.

That may be the case in the UK, but I can assure you in Illinois it is
not.  Take a drive on the Dan Ryan Expressway sometime and you will see
cars with bumpers and fenders held on with rope.

> Neither of these rules currently apply to computers.  Maybe they should.
>
> Rich

-- 
Shawn Morris