The origin of "hacker", as far as I am aware, comes from golf, where a dedicated amateur golfer is called a "hacker" (since they "hack" at the ball). So "hacker" started off as a derogatory term anyway.
I believe the main reason "hacker" has gained the connotation of a data invader is because the word "hack" suggests cutting or destroying something.
In the end it doesn't really matter what term you use. People that aren't hackers will always use the term in a negative light (since it describes a group to which they don't belong). Just look at the pointless distinction some trek fans have between "Trekkie" and "Trekker". Same problem.
However, if you want a term to mean "dedicated amateur programmer", I suggest "bugger" as in "Guy who puts the bugs in". Rendering its meaning of "homosexual" obsolete would be worthy... and also indicate real community on the part of hackers - you'd need a lot of people using the term proudly for its meaning to change.
(In Australian slang, someone who is "a bit of a bugger" is a bit of a rascal. Its emphasis is somewhat affectionate).
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The origin of "hacker", as far as I am aware, comes from golf, where a dedicated amateur golfer is called a "hacker" (since they "hack" at the ball). So "hacker" started off as a derogatory term anyway.
I believe the main reason "hacker" has gained the connotation of a data invader is because the word "hack" suggests cutting or destroying something.
In the end it doesn't really matter what term you use. People that aren't hackers will always use the term in a negative light (since it describes a group to which they don't belong). Just look at the pointless distinction some trek fans have between "Trekkie" and "Trekker". Same problem.
However, if you want a term to mean "dedicated amateur programmer", I suggest "bugger" as in "Guy who puts the bugs in". Rendering its meaning of "homosexual" obsolete would be worthy... and also indicate real community on the part of hackers - you'd need a lot of people using the term proudly for its meaning to change.
(In Australian slang, someone who is "a bit of a bugger" is a bit of a rascal. Its emphasis is somewhat affectionate).