> Because C forces the programmer to prioritize machine efficiency above everything else. Algorithms get contorted to account for the fact the programmer must explicitly allocate and release all resources. Data structures get hammered down into whatever form will fit C's simplistic (and not very machine efficient) memory model.
Well. We couldn't disagree more.
I love APL because it absolutely removes you from nearly everything low-level and allows you to focus on the problem at hand with an incredible ability to express ideas. I did about ten years of serious work with APL. I would not suggest that a new programmer start with APL. You really need to know the low level stuff. Particularly if we are talking about writing an operating system and drivers.
Nobody is suggesting that a programmer must never stray outside of C. That would be, to echo your sentiment, idiotic. A good foundation in C makes all else non-magical, which is important.
Well. We couldn't disagree more.
I love APL because it absolutely removes you from nearly everything low-level and allows you to focus on the problem at hand with an incredible ability to express ideas. I did about ten years of serious work with APL. I would not suggest that a new programmer start with APL. You really need to know the low level stuff. Particularly if we are talking about writing an operating system and drivers.
Nobody is suggesting that a programmer must never stray outside of C. That would be, to echo your sentiment, idiotic. A good foundation in C makes all else non-magical, which is important.