Consider replacing 'Blame' in UI with word without strong negative meaning

Originator:dempsey
Number:rdar://35031446 Date Originated:October 17 2017
Status:Open Resolved:
Product:Developer Tools Product Version:9.0.1
Classification:UI/Usability Reproducible:Always
 
Summary:
Xcode uses the word 'Blame' in its user interface in multiple places. Blame is a word with a strong negative connotation, essentially accusing all people who write code using Xcode of “responsibility for a fault or wrong”.

This seems out of place with the usual Apple style of inclusiveness, achievement and encouragement. It also seems out of step with Apple using Xcode in an educational environment to build apps with programs like Everyone Can Code.

Please see:  http://jamesdempsey.net/2017/10/17/xcode-whos-to-blame for more explanation regarding reasons why a change of terminology should be considered.

One suggestion would be to use the word 'Author' instead of 'Blame', since it indicates the authorship of code without using a disparaging term.

Steps to Reproduce:
Create a new Xcode project and leave 'Create a git repository'
There is now a 'Blame view' and 'Show Blame For Line' menu item in the code editor contextual menu and Editor menu.

Expected Results:
I would not expect disparaging terms in the interface of an app from Apple. (Even if the term is a meant in an ironic way in the underlying tool git)

Actual Results:
Xcode indicates that every line of code is worthy of blame.

Version/Build:
Version 9.0.1 (9A1004)

Configuration:
MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2016)

Comments

This change was made in Xcode 9.3 betas. However, a regression (37484100) prevents me from accessing all of the spots where Blame appeared in the UI. So not closing this just yet.

Thanks to those who have commented in support of this idea. Please file a bug report at bugreport.apple.com requesting the same change to let Apple know.

I fully agree with James for the removal of blame. The only useful information is date and commit. Also Intelij uses "annotate" which looks much more for constructive informational purpose than pointing a finger at someone.

Great idea!

When I think about when I use “blame” in Xcode, I am usually more interested in the date and commit message than the actual author. Therefore “blame” is completely the wrong meaning.

By antonyharfield at Oct. 21, 2017, 1:40 a.m. (reply...)

Good definitions make for clear ideas. I fully support James's request to remove blame.


Please note: Reports posted here will not necessarily be seen by Apple. All problems should be submitted at bugreport.apple.com before they are posted here. Please only post information for Radars that you have filed yourself, and please do not include Apple confidential information in your posts. Thank you!