Why do mistakes happen in programming?

Mistakes in programming often occur due to a variety of factors, primarily stemming from a lack of information or understanding of the context in which decisions are made. As discussed by Dave Kerr and Jerod Santo:

1. Lack of Information: Programmers might not have all the necessary information at the time of coding, leading to decisions that do not hold up over time or in different contexts.
2. Complex Systems: Over time, systems evolve and become more complex, making initial decisions inadequate as new variables or challenges emerge.
3. Time Constraints: Often, decisions in programming need to be made quickly, without the luxury of lengthy deliberation.
4. Emotional Maturity: The tech environment can sometimes foster a harsh critique culture. Recognizing that everyone is learning and growing can foster a more inclusive and supportive environment.
5. Historical Context: Decisions that seem perplexing at a later date might have been sensible under the circumstances and knowledge available at that time.

These various elements contribute to programming errors by creating scenarios where choices are made with incomplete data, under pressure, or without full foresight of their implications 1.