Well, since no-one is defending programmers, I will. :) I've always been a software person, and am not shy to say so.

First, all my "technical" friends in high-school went on to get a degree in EE. One of my best friends once told me he was studying EE because "that's where the money was." Interestingly, ALL of them are now happily employed as software engineers--including my best friend.

Second, I'm curious about anyone suggesting that programmers' salaries are currently subject to any downware pressure. To the contrary, last I heard there are three positions available for every qualified programmer and that situation is projected to last for at least another decade. Companies are doing anything to keep their programmers from leaving for other opportunities. And my fellow programming friends and I have seen our salaries increase approximately 700% in the last 7 yeas. Mileage will vary.

Interestingly, the original question did not inquire as to the characteristics of programmers or EE (individualistic, intelligent, fashion-conscious, etc). Rather it seems the original post was inquiring as to which career was the better choice. The answer to that, I think, depends on the criteria of the person making the choice. Potential criteria include salary, benefits, job satisfacion, employment security, job location. I'm sure there are others...

As a software engineer, I'd make the following observations about my chosen profession: I have absolutely no fear of not finding work. I find my work interesting and enjoyable, and it is very rewarding developing software and seeing the results instantly. I often feel as if I'm an artist, being creative, and the resulting software is my "masterpiece." But I make quite a bit more than the average artist. If I ever get tired of a given job, I have an Inbox full of other companies that are eager to hire me. And, as I mentioned earlier, I've seen my income rise about 700% in less than a decade, doing what I like to do.

Perhaps the EE folks can comment on their job satisfaction, job security, what their salary has done in the last decade or so, etc. I think that's the kind of information that's going to help Simon with what he was originally asking. In the end, each person should do what it is he/she finds enjoyable. I enjoy programming and, thankfully, companies seem more and more eager to pay good money for my skillset every day.

Take care,
Craig "ProgrammingMeister" Steiner