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> We should worry, for instance, when Python, a language that breaks all academic language design tenets, is one of the most popular languages in the world. We
by yoodenvranx 10y ago
> We should worry, for instance, when Python, a language that breaks all academic language design tenets, is one of the most popular languages in the world.
Well, Python has a) an extensive runtime library (e.g. batteries included) and b) you type some text in a file and then you can run your program without dealing with any build system. I'd argue that both of these things might more important for the average programmer than some perfect but esoteric type system.
I kinda love the language C++ but I hate dealing with all the hassles surrounding it. Why is it so complicated to include a random C++ library from the internet to my project? Why do i have to redo my build system when I switch platforms? I usually use Python for 99% of my pet projects because it is just so easy to get started. I have some hopes that Rust improves the plumbing situation for low-level programming languages.
- cabalamat 10y ago> Python has a) an extensive runtime library (e.g. batteries included) Which is also decently documented. The importance of good documentation for libraries (and other tools) cannot be over-emphasized. Also, just as important as the standard library are third party libraries.v The advantage of using Python (or other popular languages) is that there is probably already a library for what you want.