Subject: Re: Why use APL? Why not C?
From: mslamm@pluto.cc.huji.ac.il (Zvi Lamm)
Date: 8 Mar 1995 10:44:25 GMT
References: <3j3mb9$226@cville-srv.wam.umd.edu> <D4tHwp.nH@freenet.carleton.ca> <3j67qh$g0d@news.csus.edu>

Not really to answer the question; but regarding C vs. APL.

C++ (and object oriented programming in general) gives you a classic
framework that supports code ruese. On the other hand, the language
itself is not enough. Many concepts that are essential are not part of
the core language. These concepts, for example, iterators and container
classes, are also part of other OO languages. So this is a mixed blessing
- it is not enough to learn the syntax and semantics of C++ you have to
learn some more. This extra part can also help you elsewhere.

The basic problem with APL/J is that it is not widely used. However it
can become the tool of choice for certain niche applications.

The great thing about APL/J is that the language provides great tools for
thought which help you solve problems, and gain insights about them.
Even if one decides not to use APL professionaly I think APL must be part
of a programmers training.

--
Ehud Lamm     mslamm@pluto.mscc.huji.ac.il
