> The idea that a stable API provides no value is contrary to all the evidence. ...agreed > Look at graphics APIs like DirectX and look at what happened when

> The idea that a stable API provides no value is contrary to all the evidence. ...agreed > Look at graphics APIs like DirectX and look at what happened when jQuery was released for more evidence that having a stable API...provides vast amount of value. I wonder if more correct to say the concept of virtual machine provides a vast amount of value - like Java saying "run everywhere." But your examples (DirectX, jQuery) could also prove a different point: high levels of abstraction layers lead to maintenance and efficiency nightmares. For example, jQuery sits on JavaScript, sits on browser's engine, sits on OS, sits on microcode. A jQuery-focused dev would still spend a significant amount of time setting up, debugging, accommodating, and troubleshooting things on all the other layers compared to just getting things done in their (somewhat) stable jQuery ABI. The layers are helpful sometimes, and hurtful sometimes, and the net gain is not always as great as expected.