I'm impressed with and have been inspired by the work many programmers have produced, but I don't look up to them. As a matter of principle, I think it is unhealthy behaviour to idolise others.
There is a big difference between looking up to somebody and idolising him/her.
Looking up to somebody means that you admire them for their character and/or achievements. "Honour to whom honour is due." In a further step, they might become a role model - meaning that you take them as a personal example because you want to achieve similar things in life. This is in line with Newton's "If I have seen far, it is because I have stood on the shoulders of giants." Their example inspires and guides you in your own efforts.
Idolising starts when you admire somebody so much that you fail to see them as human. You refuse to admit to their weaknesses and failures. And instead of seeking inspiration from them for living your own life, you attempt to relive theirs. They have become a god to you - hence the term, "idol".
Looking up to somebody means that you admire them for their character and/or achievements. "Honour to whom honour is due." In a further step, they might become a role model - meaning that you take them as a personal example because you want to achieve similar things in life. This is in line with Newton's "If I have seen far, it is because I have stood on the shoulders of giants." Their example inspires and guides you in your own efforts.
Idolising starts when you admire somebody so much that you fail to see them as human. You refuse to admit to their weaknesses and failures. And instead of seeking inspiration from them for living your own life, you attempt to relive theirs. They have become a god to you - hence the term, "idol".