5 ms·
Why are most recommended books by computer scientists rather old?
When asked about good or phenomenal books, computer scientists and programmers recommend books like SICP, K&R, etc. The thing is they are old (not a bad thing) and have stood the test of time.
But aren't people writing good books anymore? Why aren't newer books delivering the same value as those giants?
- icsa 4y agoBecause most of the essential concepts in computer science were developed by the early 70s. In addition, the concepts were developed in an era of scarce computing resources. Acess to relatively unlimited resources does not foster creativity. The phrase "Necessity is the mother of invention." comes to mind. Look up the youtube demo videos (from the 1960s) of: * Sketchpad * The Mother of All Demos * Grail
- brudgers 4y agoKnuth is still writing TAoCP, and it is older than any of the books you mention.
- simonblack 4y agoThe old books are still valid because in the words of the old sayings: "Don't re-invent the wheel" and "If it works don't fix it". If you think those sayings are not correct, merely look at the various Hollywood re-makes of hit movies of the past. Almost invariably, the older versions were much better than today's re-makes.