Cargo Cult Programming

ELI5 — The Vibe Check

Copying code without understanding why it works. Like a cargo cult that builds fake airplanes hoping real planes will come. You paste a Stack Overflow answer, it works, you have NO idea why. We've all been there (especially when vibecoding).

Real Talk

Cargo cult programming is the practice of using code patterns, methodologies, or tools without understanding them. The term derives from cargo cult behavior — mimicking observed rituals without understanding the underlying mechanics.

When You'll Hear This

"Don't cargo cult that config — understand what each option does." / "That entire codebase is cargo culted from tutorials."