simplicity-in-design
The principle that computer systems must be unified and clear by intentional design rather than patched or complicated.
2 chapters across 2 books
The Report on Project Xanadu Concerning Word Processing, Electronic Publishing, Hypertext, Thinkertoys, Tomorrow's Intellectual Revolution, and Certain Other Topics Including Knowledge, Education and Freedom (1981)Ted Nelson
The 'Preamble' chapter of Ted Nelson's report introduces the concept of hypertext and the vision behind Project Xanadu, emphasizing the transformative potential of computers as personal information tools and screens for reading and writing. Nelson critiques the current state of computer systems for their complexity and lack of simplicity, advocating for a unified, well-designed virtual environment that enhances human intellectual freedom. The chapter also dedicates the work to George Orwell, highlighting concerns about information control and tyranny.
Hackers & Painters: Big Ideas from the Computer Age (2008)Paul Graham
This chapter explores the concept of taste and beauty as essential, objective qualities in design and creation across disciplines such as mathematics, engineering, art, and software. It argues against the relativistic view that taste is purely subjective, emphasizing that good design is characterized by simplicity, timelessness, problem-solving, suggestiveness, humor, and difficulty. The chapter encourages makers to cultivate and refine their taste to improve their work and create enduring, meaningful designs.