Question 1.) Why do you program, and what attracted you to programming in the first place I began programming in the late 70's because I way fascinated by the fact that I, an individual, could exhibit such power to control a sophisticated machine like a computer, and through a few instructions have it do my bidding. It was exhilarating and fun. I'm not an artist, but I still like be creative and to see what I can create. I like to solve problems, and see the faces of those grateful people who's problems I solved. Question 2.) Do you see any problems or future problems that could arise within the programmer subculture? The biggest problem is that to stay relevant you need to allays be learning the next platform or paradigm. This business moves faster than than any other industry. The language of the day will change by the time you get proficient at it. That trend will accelerate in the coming years. Software is also going to start writing itself in the very near future, which may not bode well for pure coders. My recommendation for new people to this industry: Learn general business skills, the kind that you can take to any organization to compliment you coding skills. Learn accounting/finance, writing, public speaking, business math and and analysis. Get your BS in computer science but get an MBA in business administration. More than pure coders, companies increasingly want people who can cross the room and talk to their users in a language they can understand. You need to be conversant with the latest software paradigm and talk business also. Bottom line is you need to have or develop a passion for this industry. If you don't have that passion your not going to have the energy to invest the extra effort to stay ahead of the pack. Find you passion. What do you do when your not being paid. Find a way to work that passion into a paying career and you shoot ahead of the pack. Good Luck