Why I am not a Wordist: Philosophical Considerations on Graphics-Oriented Word Processors.

Abstract

Supporters of MicroSoft Word, or wordists, claim a number of virtues graphics-oriented programs would possess. To my mmind, though, the Wysiwyg concept brings the computer era texts back to the days when form and content could not be detached, which gives rise to an amalgam. One of the advantages of human language is its linearity, which is given up by graphics-oriented programmes, mainly WORD. Information-oriented programmes and languages are a better solution, for seven reasons, namely: Connectedness; Reformattability; Flexibility; Economy and proportionality; Control (you see what you mean); Universality; Lightness. I hope the information-oriented approach will prevail sooner or later.