Language transitions

[g-frank at gumby.UUCP]

> For instance, I cannot
> stand the Apple MAC, because it does not allow me enough freedom with
> the computer.  Incidently, this is why I don't like Pascal.
> 

If you want greater freedom, try Modula-2 or Ada.  In the case of Modula-2,
the designers basically said, "we could probably give enormous power to
the programmer without sacrificing structure, but that would require a
larger, slower language than we would like.  Therefore, we will create
a structured language with explicit, system-dependent escapes, to be used
only when necessary."  With Ada, obviously the other tack was taken.
Strong typing and structure is only bad when it prevents you from doing
something in a reasonable way (the very legitimate complaint about ISO
Pascal).  If there are escapes, or if the structure is VERY powerful,
there's no good argument against it, since your freedom is not threatened,
and you get all the benefits without the "walls."

> 	One argument against C that I have heard A LOT is that it isn't
> structured or that it's hard to program readable code in C.  This is a
> bunch of B*LL.  The fact is that who-ever said that either does not
> or has not programmed in C, or saw a bunch of Joe-Code by some-one-else
> who wasn't a very good programmer.
> 

C is structured.  C is NOT strongly typed, and it is easier than most
languages to write cryptic code in.  It is also possible to write nice
looking, readable code in.  My personal problem with C is that it does
not encourage clear thinking and careful planning in those who need the
most encouragement, and that I, an experienced programmer who HAS worked
extensively in C, have trouble debugging large systems written in the
language.  Sorry.  I know at least two other people in the world besides
myself who aren't perfect, and all three of us like some help from our
language.

> 	The general objection to Pascal by C programmers is that it is
> not powerfull enough, or fast enough.  Alternatively, Pascal programmers
> see C as such a change, that it's unreadable to them.
> 
> 	My opinion on Pascal (And this may inspire a mail war), is that
> it is a subset of C, period. 

Can I ask a BIG favor?  Can at least ONE of the other people in this
newsgroup PLEASE read a book on Modula-2, so that we can stop this
"I think C is better than being slapped in the face with a dead
jellyfish" discussion?  Or is my contention true, that C hackers have
calcified brains and no longer read books?


-- 
      Dan Frank

	"good news is just life's way of keeping you off balance."