Many are self-taught, or learn by interacting with other hackers. Hackers seek knowledge. This knowledge may come from unauthorized or unusual sources, and is often hidden. Hackers are tinkerers. They like to understand how things work, and want to make their own improvements or modifications.
Hackers often disagree with authority, including parents, employers, social customs and laws.
They often seek to circumvent authority they disagree with. Hackers disagree with each other. Different hackers have different values, and come from all backgrounds. This means that what one hacker is opposed to might be embraced by another. Hackers are persistent, and are willing to devote hours, days and years to pursuing their individual passions.