I have a theory that software drives people insane

A theory suggests that software may contribute to people's mental decline. Not in the sense of excessive hand washing, but rather the conditions surrounding software create an environment where normal individuals lose their sense of proportion. This observation is based on witnessing similar occurrences multiple times and from various perspectives.

The combination of speed, money, complexity, abstraction, and the freedom to alter one's mind when working with software can lead to peculiar outcomes. Most software, stripped of branding and architecture diagrams, is relatively mundane, featuring forms, API endpoints, permissions, calculations, workflows, and databases. While seemingly unremarkable, the process of creating such software can transform ordinary adults into individuals displaying characteristics akin to Bond villains.

Despite the seemingly straightforward nature of most software, the development process can induce a state of intense urgency and constant change, with every new feature perceived as potentially groundbreaking. The software industry often lacks clear indicators of when a project is complete, as there is no definitive definition of "done."

This results in a constant pursuit of improvement and expansion, with various levers at hand to adjust the software's performance, functionality, or even the company's direction. The ease of implementing changes in software can lead to a dangerous mindset where every idea, regardless of its practicality, is quickly added to the roadmap, often without proper consideration.

This can create a sense of urgency and a belief that any minor change is necessary for success. The allure of quick fixes and the potential for significant returns can lead to a constant state of agitation, with team members constantly pulling levers in an attempt to optimize various aspects of the software and the company.