"Early theories of cargo cults began from the assumption that practitioners simply failed to understand technology."
New members often express bright enthusiasm for learning to maintain our equipment. It's common to hear prospective members say how much they want to fix windsurf boards, sailboats, and other gear.
Which is great. Maintenance by volunteers is a central part of Cal Sailing Club. It keeps costs low, it teaches a lot about the equipment, and it's a different kind of fun than sailing in a boat or just watching the water with others.
What is the attraction for these bright-eyed would-be Mr. & Ms. Fixits? Maybe they think that learning it will enable them to have complete mastery of the equipment--ding-free windsurf boards, sheets that zip through blocks with zero friction, outboards that unfailingly leap to life. Maybe they think they'll become experts, sail around the world on a tiny budget thanks to their clever repairs, keep a quiver of windsurf boards and sails in tip-top shape for pennies, and be able to take on any repair with complete confidence.
If so, they're right, kind of. If they hang out long enough and do enough work, they'll get pretty good at fixing stuff, and they'll save money on gear and keep it in better shape.
