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James Edward Gray II has been programming long enough to learn a thing or two about how this computer stuff actually works. Nobody cares about that. Seriously, that's not the most common thing people ask him about. Instead, they often come with questions about why James tools around in an eletric wheelchair. Were legs just not hackable enough for his taste? Does he have a Charles Xavier complex? Does he not eat enough beta-carotene? James is ready to answer all of these questions. He believes the answers might even be just a little related to programming. Don't be surprised if you find yourself wishing for some neuromuscular disease of your very own. (Note: live genetic engineering is a violation of GoGaRuCo's insurance policy, but James can teach you how to fake a disability for the purposes of gaining deeper insight into code—allowable due to the Reprogrammed Humans for the Greater Good Act of 2442.) Help us caption & translate this video! http://amara.org/v/FG7i/
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In the video titled "Built to Program," James Edward Gray II, a prominent figure in the Ruby programming community, discusses his experiences living with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) and how it impacts his coding practices. Delivered at the GoGaRuCo 2013 conference, the talk seeks to demystify disabilities and explore broader themes of programming and collaboration. ### Main Topics: - **Disability Awareness:** The presentation begins with James addressing his disability openly, emphasizing that it's a matter of public inquiry and not something to be shied away from. He encourages audience members to ask questions, highlighting that these are not secrets but rather aspects of his normal life. - **Understanding Muscle Disorders:** James explains that he has SMA type 1, which affects muscle function, yet shares how he doesn’t conform to the typical symptoms associated with it. He clarifies how his condition differs from other muscular dystrophies and introduces concepts like the importance of the survival motor neuron (SMN) protein. - **Coping Mechanisms and Trade-offs:** James shares practical insights on traveling and mobility challenges, illustrating how he balances the use of an electric wheelchair with a manual one. He connects this trade-off to programming: prioritizing efficiency and the importance of understanding energy expenditure in tasks. - **Programming Philosophy:** Throughout the talk, he emphasizes the concept of automation as a way to counteract limitations caused by his disability. His approach to coding has evolved, leading him to favor tools like Emacs for their automation capabilities, which allow him to work more efficiently despite physical constraints. - **Collaboration and Social Interaction in Programming:** James champions the idea that programming is fundamentally about people and interaction. He reflects on how significant advances happen not just through individual effort but through collaboration, urging the audience to engage socially within their professional environments. ### Key Takeaways: - **Openness About Disability:** Addressing disabilities directly can foster understanding and remove stigma. - **Efficiency in Coding:** Understanding one's limitations can lead to more strategic programming practices. - **The Importance of Collaboration:** Collective problem-solving and social interaction in tech communities are essential for significant progress in programming projects. - **Broader Implications:** The lessons from James's experiences can apply beyond programming, encouraging a deeper appreciation for diversity and cooperation in various fields.
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