4 ms·
> Unlike a human language, a computer language isn't "dead" when it stops changing. It is dead when nobody is using it. These are very different criteria. A hu
by MaxBarraclough 2y ago
> Unlike a human language, a computer language isn't "dead" when it stops changing. It is dead when nobody is using it. These are very different criteria.
A human language is considered dead if it no longer has any first-language speakers, but does have second-language speakers or is used fluently in written form, such as Latin. [0]
I broadly agree with your point though. Many languages would do well to slow their rate of change. There are very few slow-changing languages, like C, Forth, and Scheme. This 4 year old comment of mine on this topic is still applicable. [1]
[0] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dead_language https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dead_language
[1] https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=21950875 https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=21950875
- drpixie 2y agoYou're right of course. I was thinking that human languages change naturally while in use.