# Re: True Hacker Versus Growth Hacker

Ben Collver wrote the original text[1] which has compelled me, from my
recent slumber, to compose this post.


## Amateur Radio Enthusiasts - The original hackers

Hams were hackers long before computers were a thing. Older generations
built their own equipment from scratch, often using salvaged parts.
Later, post-war generations bought ex-military radio gear and modified
it for use on the amateur bands.

That ethos is still part of the hobby but, it is dieing. Mainly due
to the availability of cheap off the shelf solutions, from which
you learn nothing...

Today, it's too easy to buy a solution; to be a consumer rather
than a creator. The solution, just one click away with next day delivery.

Unfulfilling...


## Playful Creativity

You cannot commoditise the flame that burns which drives our curiosity
or motivates us to create the things we choose to create and no
purchase will make you something you are not.

For most of us cut our teeth on outdated equipment. Making something
we could use from someone elses junk or, extending functionality beyond
the original design. This habit sticks with you.

Creation is a skill and as with all skills, they need to be developed
with continued learning and practice. 

To *be* or to *buy*, that is the question...


[1]( gopher://tilde.pink/0/~bencollver/log/2026-07-22-true-hacker-vs-growth-hacker/readme.txt )