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Well, I think there is more to it that having invested time in inferior languages. Programming well in higher order languages requires a different kind of think
by cstejerean 19y ago
Well, I think there is more to it that having invested time in inferior languages. Programming well in higher order languages requires a different kind of thinking from writing simple procedural code and using UML and "design patterns" as crutches. I would argue that Python is easier to learn than either C++ or Java, but much harder to master because mastering Python requires one to think differently. The same is true of Lisp, Erlang or Haskell.
Sadly I think most people are not taught how to think, but rather how to perform repetitive tasks based on some formula (works great for writing Java).
Another problem I think is that most Blub programmers don't program because they love programming and therefore are not willing to put in the time and effort to learn a different way of thinking.
Personally I believe programming is an art and as such it requires talent as well as dedication. I'm disappointed that after all this years everyone still thinks programming is some form of science. Software engineering? WTF?
- lisporama 19y agoAs one learning lisp and working through SICP... I've got to say that this is practically like learning to program all over again. I'd almost go so far as to say that it's like learning to program. Period. Regardless of the years of experience in those other languages.... I did love programming, though... even though I was so Blubby. As long as I wasn't pushing the limits of the languages, I wouldn't think to look anywhere else. I didn't quite imagine that real Computer Science (like SICP) could benefit me-- given how atrocious so many programmers I'd met that had even Master's Degrees were.... Now I feel like I've wasted years and years of time. (Why didn't anyone tell me? Ah... but would I have paid attention if they tried?)