I'm not interested, personally, in debating semantics. On the other hand the question is a good one, I think. The definition of hacking is available on the web:
http://dictionary.reference.com/search?q=hacking
Where both perspectives are in the definition:
Quote:
hack1 ( P ) Pronunciation Key (hk)
v. hacked, hack·ing, hacks
v. tr.
To cut or chop with repeated and irregular blows: hacked down the saplings.
To break up the surface of (soil).
Informal. To alter (a computer program): hacked her text editor to read HTML.
To gain access to (a computer file or network) illegally or without authorization: hacked the firm's personnel database.
Slang. To cut or mutilate as if by hacking: hacked millions off the budget.
Slang. To cope with successfully; manage: couldn't hack a second job.
v. intr.
To chop or cut something by hacking.
Informal.
To write or refine computer programs skillfully.
To use one's skill in computer programming to gain illegal or unauthorized access to a file or network: hacked into the company's intranet.
To cough roughly or harshly.
n.
A rough, irregular cut made by hacking.
A tool, such as a hoe, used for hacking.
A blow made by hacking.
A rough, dry cough.
It is obviously that our rules pertain to the definition that is related to illegal activities and not related to coughing, cutting trees, or refining computer programs skillfully,
Nor is it related to sports (golf hacking) or any of the other infinate variety of uses that such a widely used term could be constructed.
Furthermore, if we say 'hacking into a computer system or computer network' this could be either good or bad, depending on if the owner of the system or network has provided permission to do so.
In todays world, from my perspective, the term generally refers to illegal activities because of the myriad illegal activites that occur. It is sad, but true, how much the rise of the Internet and computing has given rise to so much cybercrime and cyberfraud.
When I describe people who 'skillfully refine computer programs', I tend to call them 'computer experts' or a term that I consider more mainstream in the year 2004. For example, I would not put on my resume that I am 'a hacker'..... I might put on my resume that I have years of experience and subject matter expertise in programming and 6 years of college education related to computer engineering and (blah blah).... I personally think that is more clear and more professional description.
Just my opinion.......
(good question, btw)
08-20-2004
