99% graft, only 1% of the credit: engineers deserve more

In the article, James Hirst discusses the often-overlooked labor and dedication of engineers behind technological advancements, using the historical example of the SS Normandie to highlight the tangible efforts involved in engineering feats. He argues that while past engineering marvels like ships were celebrated along with the skilled labor that created them, modern technology tends to obscure the hard work of engineers behind a facade of simplicity and immaculacy. Hirst advocates for recognizing and celebrating the relentless work and creativity of engineers who ensure the functionality of modern technology, akin to the pride shown in historical engineering projects. He suggests that digital products should acknowledge their creators much like ships did, by metaphorically affixing 'brass plaques' to their innovations as a tribute to the human effort involved.