Commons-Based Memories: Programming Practices and Large Language Models

Abstract This article examines the role of digital interfaces in the creation and access of productive memory in the context of programming communities of practice. We first propose an analysis of question-and-answer platforms as the dominant means of creating such memories, and how such technical environment results in the constitution of knowledge commons. We then contrast these means with the emergence of programming-focused large language models, and how they represent a shift from large collaborative environment to non-human collaboration. As a result, we draw some implications regarding the sustainability of knowledge commons as well as the complementarity of digital devices in affecting the knowledge and values of the collective memories of programmers.