> In fact, the opposite: today our computing devices are less programmable and less customizable than ever before.

Ohh, I'm not at all sure I agree with that -- but then again, I am pretty sure I have an above-average number of scripts for my Android phone's Automagic app, and before that Llama. I have all sorts of automation and customization set up on my phone and workstation -- but granted, this is far above the trodden path for Joe User.