I consider a COMPLEX problem solver is a hacker. A person who makes profound contribution to his field of interest is a hacker. A person who looks at a tree and wonders why the branches and the leaves grow the way they should is a hacker. TO SUM IT UP A PERSON WHO'S NOT WORRIED BUT CURIOUS TO KNOW HOW THINGS WORK IS A HACKER. HACKER NEWS IS A PLACE FOR THESE MEN,WOMEN AND CHILDREN TO MEET UP. (for the time being i don't fall into any of the above category as i'am yet to become a hacker!!!!!!!!)