The larger pattern is not unique to writing code. Think of it next time a reorg comes, or some random thing gets "improved" in the name of "efficiency" only management seems to see.

Unless they are not human.

    > But in 30 days we could put in electronic relays. Get the men out of the loop.

    > Gentlemen...
    > I wouldn't trust this overgrown pile of microchips further than I could throw it. I don't know if 
    > you wanna trust the safety of our country to some... silicon diode...