
About this episode
Joël and Sally examine the simpler components of programming and why using basic data structures may not always be the best approach to solving a problem.
Our hosts cover all the telltale signs and symptoms of primitive obsession, what it is, it’s drawbacks and limitations, and how to avoid it creeping into your own work.
—
Want to learn more about primitive obsession and readability in programming? Check out these links for some wider reading, including a talk from Joël! - Design Patterns and Null - thoughtbot blog on primitive obsession - Define User
Your hosts for this episode have been thoughtbot’s own Joël Quenneville and Sally Hall.
If you would like to support the show, head over to our GitHub page, or check out our website.
Got a question or comment about the show? Why not write to our hosts: [email protected]
This has been a thoughtbot podcast.
Stay up to date by following us on social media - YouTube - LinkedIn - Mastodon - BlueSky
© 2026 thoughtbot, inc.
Get every episode summarized
Each time The Bike Shed publishes, we email you a written briefing from the transcript — the topics, who appeared, and any specific claims, with the ad reads skipped.
Email me new episodesFree for 3 shows. No card needed.
Hosts & guests
No transcript yet
This episode has not been transcribed. Request it and it moves to the front of the queue.
More episodes
