The author of that also uses a great deal of selective evidence, flat out ignoring genetic research in relationship to music, for example. Specific genetic sequences have been linked both to perfect pitch and to success in classical music. If you can't find it via a quick google search, I'll be happy to provide citations.
Evidence for the role of genetics in running, swimming and a variety of other sports is equally overwhelming. In short, he (and others like him such as gladwell) sell a fantasy that millions, possibly billions would like to believe. It's an excellent strategy for selling books and developing a base of hard-core fans, but it's just not true.
You are right: genetics can certainly give you an edge and this is briefly mentioned in the book.
But do you mean that someone without the right genetic sequence can't play music? Or do you mean that someone with the right genetic sequence but who never does deliberate practice will be better than someone who has practiced 6 hours per day for the past 20 years under the best masters?
I think you don't mean that and the book did not mean that everyone can be star.
I'm sure some programmers are advantaged by their genes, but saying that all the bad programmers don't have the right genes and should look elsewhere is another thing. I would prefer to look at their learning practices and motivations before studying their genes. I'm sure I would have a lot more success than a geneticist in this case.
Evidence for the role of genetics in running, swimming and a variety of other sports is equally overwhelming. In short, he (and others like him such as gladwell) sell a fantasy that millions, possibly billions would like to believe. It's an excellent strategy for selling books and developing a base of hard-core fans, but it's just not true.