Monday, November 11, 2013

Pragmatic Approach

I was reading an article on EFYTimes.com titled “10 Most hated Programming Languages”. After reading the article, I was disappointed how the writer dissected each programming language to their own subjectivity.  Here are the programming languages the writer listed as the most hated:
·         Python
·         LabView
·         JavaScript
·         Tcl
·         COBOL
·         C++
·         PHP
·         Java
·         Perl
·         Visual Basic (efytimes.com)

I don’t think it is necessary to make general statements ranking the best and worst programming language. This article can discourage an individual pursuing a career in the software development field. I believe everyone has the right to their own biasness toward programming languages.

Many times, people struggle with the syntax of a programming language and declare the language as less useful. Each of the languages listed above has their own uniqueness. Sometimes it does not matter what language you prefer more, it is more about which language can solve a particular problem more efficiently.

The writer might not comprehend different paradigms in programming. If so, the writer would of have mentioned the concepts and different methodologies each programing language has to offer. For example, if you want to build a web application, would you choose C++ or PHP? Clearly, you can use any language to construct an application, but it is proven that PHP is better suited for building a web application. PHP was designed for server-side programming; while c++ is mostly used for constructing high-end applications, such as games.


Software developers should familiarize themselves with different programming languages. Exploring new languages will help you think in general, and study different paradigms each language has to offer. Sure, some languages syntax is not pleasant, but it might be the best solution for solving a problem. Programmers are becoming lazy, and comfortable using other libraries instead of building their own. I challenge every software developer to build an application in each language listed above, and share their experiences.