Antirez argues AI is shifting programming value from code review to idea control

MikkoH · x · 2026-07-28

The real leverage in AI-era programming is deciding the ideas, not staring at code

The post links to Antirez’s essay arguing that AI is changing programming in a painful but ultimately productive way. The central point is that many developers are losing leverage because they focus too much on the code itself, when the higher-value work is deciding what the software should do.

He says this does not mean “vibe code and ignore the product.” It means the programmer’s job is shifting toward controlling the software’s ideas and direction, while accepting that the field is being transformed by AI rather than just superficially accelerated.

The writer says this is worth revisiting because it captures a broader anxiety in the developer community: people know the workflow is changing, but they are unsure how to adapt without feeling like they are betraying their craft.

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