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Do smarter compilers, languages, and frameworks make dumber programmers?

Asked 2009-01-09T15:49:32.403
11

The more and more advanced compilers, languages, and frameworks we have that either automate tasks, or hide certain intricacies from us, do they ultimately make us dumber programmers?

Jim C gives the following analogy of a calculator:

Any one extract a square root lately, by using paper and pencil? We use a calculator or simple call a function in our favorite programming language. How many of us know what the calculator does or even the function?

So why don't we all just tell our kids to forget learning math, that's what we have calculators for? Wouldn't that inherently make our kids dumber?

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3 Answers

4

No,

Smart compilers let the smart programmers focus on things that really mater, like designing good software.

answered 2009-01-09T15:53:15.373
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It makes it easier for less skilled programmers to enter the field, is all. It doesn't make a good programmer dumber. They'd be dumb if they ignored tools that could potentially increase their efficiency.

answered 2009-01-09T15:55:37.053
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On the contrary, smarter compilers mean you're fighting with the computer less and get to give more thought about how you are trying to do something.

If you're struggling with assembler you will almost never bother with anonymous methods.

answered 2009-01-09T16:48:42.970

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