Dear Hacker: Letters to the Editor of 2600 is a collection of important correspondence and insights shared within the hacker community. The book highlights various letters that reflect the thoughts, concerns, and ideas of hackers and enthusiasts who contributed to the influential magazine 2600: The Hacker Quarterly. It provides a glimpse into the culture, ethics, and philosophy of hacking as seen through the eyes of its supporters and critics.
The book explores themes such as the importance of privacy, freedom of information, and the ethical boundaries of hacking. It captures debates and discussions that shaped the community and showcases the diversity of opinions among hackers, from those advocating for open access to technology to those concerned about security and misuse. These letters serve as historical documentation of the evolving hacker ethos over time.
Overall, Dear Hacker offers a unique perspective on the hacker movement through personal correspondences that reveal their motivations, challenges, and aspirations. It serves as an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the cultural and ethical landscape of hacking, emphasizing the community’s commitment to curiosity, innovation, and the free flow of information.