The assumption seems to be that only smart programmers will read these essays. That's maybe 10% of programmers or less (maybe a hit count would help estimate?).
Big companies are all about efficiency through division of labor. They want guys who will write uninteresting Java applications for 10 years without complaining. But for a few thousand dollars a year more (especially if you're talking entry-level), they can hire a top-10% person overqualified for the position, just in case they need the talent.
Big companies are all about efficiency through division of labor. They want guys who will write uninteresting Java applications for 10 years without complaining. But for a few thousand dollars a year more (especially if you're talking entry-level), they can hire a top-10% person overqualified for the position, just in case they need the talent.