... a very good sign that they're still too green.
When did HN become so touchy-freely? It's important that people start learning somewhere. If you show any interest in programming, I highly recommend learning more. However, there comes a time when you must have a certain amount of experience. This is a profession where important things are made. Even people who should know better end up building systems that leak our sensitive personal information, or let others impersonate us.
I didn't say that such a person shouldn't be hired, but I certainly implied that the original question is a better indicator of their capability than the always positive keyword soup and "years experience" that many people slather on their résumé.
If "avoiding IF-THEN spaghetti" is all you require from contributors, fine. Let's not pretend that this is better than an early high school effort.
When did HN become so touchy-freely? It's important that people start learning somewhere. If you show any interest in programming, I highly recommend learning more. However, there comes a time when you must have a certain amount of experience. This is a profession where important things are made. Even people who should know better end up building systems that leak our sensitive personal information, or let others impersonate us.
I didn't say that such a person shouldn't be hired, but I certainly implied that the original question is a better indicator of their capability than the always positive keyword soup and "years experience" that many people slather on their résumé.
If "avoiding IF-THEN spaghetti" is all you require from contributors, fine. Let's not pretend that this is better than an early high school effort.