One of the few cogent points to have emerged form the recent spasm of interest in so-called Software Craftsmanship is the idea that a “craftsman” has a line that they will not cross, things that they will not do. I tend to agree.

— Keith Braithwaite
peripatetic axiom: Seduced by the drama?

It’s not the point of his piece (please read his whole post) but Keith makes a nice summation.

I consider myself a software professional. My professionalism includes my skills, experience, and judgement. My professionalism is one of my assets. It is not conferred by my employer. When I change positions or jobs, my professionalism stays with me. I’m accountable for the state of my professionalism as an asset of my personal self. It is in my self interest to improve and grow but also not to perform in a manner that is harmful, destructive, or unethical as a software professional.