May 7, 2026
"nerdy" software people tend to be pretty smart, and not just in coding. Why?
these points are just what i see, def a lot of others; if you have anything to debate lmk (;
1. Only the strong survive
Natural selection
You only see those that are above the curve. Those that dont make it remain in the shadows and you don't consider them in the cohort.
If you model an individual as being unable to change (based on genes or an insurmountable obstacle caused by starting conditions), then they get left behind...
Learning is among the greatest traits of humans.
2. SW encourages good problem solving (growth)
Adaptation
it's easy because progress in software is repeatable, purely digital, and takes minimal resources (compare with mechanical engineering where iteration)
and you go into problems deeper because it's easier, and you get the cycle of being able to solve more problems in more depth leading to smarter people.
there's also the fact that software is used everywhere for automation, and being in it from the start makes the barrier for minimizing mundane tasks much lower
3. Smart people gravitate to software
Habitat selection
Organisms migrate to environments where their traits are most advantageous. Smart people are attracted to software because it's where their intelligence has the highest payoff.
Software is known to pay a lot, so you can take the previous statement quite literally.
Maybe this will change with the dynamic landscape of AI affecting supply and demand.
Another angle
Think about regions as game servers/lobbies: USA vs Europe.
- Natural selection: the less fortunate live rougher lives - this tradeoff is more important to Europe, demanding higher taxes
- Adaptation: talent breeds talent, work harder or else get left behind
- Habitat selection: the US is a talent hub
Result: smart people move to the states for startups and the US continues to innovate.
The US has more opportunity for growth and mistakes, while Europe is often happier on average.
Conclusion
I think it's all 3
the end