iWoz – Computer geek to cult icon: getting to the core of Apple’s inventor. ISBN 0-7553-1407-7.
A personable insight into the inner thoughts of one of the greatest (and most ethical) minds in the history of the personal computer. Steve Wozniak was definitely the technical genius and all-round nice guy behind Apple, someone who cared more about good engineering and its positive impact on people, than the arrogant marketing-driven cult that Apple has turned into in later years.
“I felt these were really mighty goals in life: looking consciously at the sort of person you want to be, the sort of life you want to live, the sort of society you want to help build.” Steve Wozniak
It is interesting to see how much of the creator's personality comes through in a product and the company. Steve Wozniak was very much the Apple II; his spirit comes through strongly in the product and the energy around what was the first and best selling personal computers in the world. I know because my first computer was an Apple II!
Here's Woz's take on how to change the world:
- You need to believe in yourself ... Most people think in black and white terms ... Don't let these people bring your down ... They only know what they're exposed to ... prejudice that is absolutely against the spirit of invention.
- As an inventor, you have to see things in gray scale. You need to be open ... Forget the crowd ... You don't want to jump to conclusions, take a position too quickly, and then search for as much material as you can to support your side ... being stuck in your ego.
- Artists work best alone ... I don't believe anything revolutionary has ever been invented by committee ... Work alone.
