the real question isn't "should AI write readable code" but "where in the stack does human comprehension become necessary?" we already have layers where machine-optimized formats dominate (bytecode, machine code, optimized IR). the source layer stays readable because it's the interface where human judgment enters.

maybe AI should write better readable code than humans. more consistent naming, clearer structure, better comments. precisely because humans only "skim". optimize for skimmability and debuggability, not keystroke efficiency.