To be a good programmer today is as much a privilege as it was to be a literate man in the 16th century. This privilege leads the programmer to expect recognition and respect on the part of society. Unfortunately, such an expectation is not always realized. Let me say that if this recognition is to be granted, work is required on both sides. On his part, the programmer must accept a general ethical principle applying to all professionals, but having a special interpretation for programmers. Three main attitudes to work may be distinguished: work for work’s sake; work for money; work for a goal. In the programmer’s world the first two motivations occupy first place, though it is the third that should be most absolute. Therefore, I wish to say that the programmer can achieve a fully harmonious relation with society only when loyalty to the goal of which his programming is only part is integrated into his inner attitude.