C++ is obviously not the pinnacle of PL development, but real-world impact is something else entirely. Unfortunately, the data point doesn't mean much; we tend

C++ is obviously not the pinnacle of PL development, but real-world impact is something else entirely. Unfortunately, the data point doesn't mean much; we tend to, collectively, reach a platform that's "good enough" and then just stop looking. So just because Algol 68 is no longer used does not mean C++ will eventually go the same way; indications are that it's a "good enough" language that will continue to see massive use. More to the point, everything, or at least most things, written in C++ would have to be rewritten. This is enormous inertia compared to Algol 68. >I was just pointing out that adoption of new languages is very much "Crossing the Chasm" - after the enthusiastic early adopters, the gap until the mainstream starts listening. I don't get your point (not trying to be rude; I literally don't get how it ties in to your article).