"Polymorphism Unbound" by Bruce Eckel (Strange Loop 2022)

Discover the fascinating world of polymorphism, exploring concepts such as templates, protocols, union types, and more.

Key takeaways

Polymorphism is the ability of an object to take on multiple forms. This can be achieved through inheritance, interface-based polymorphism, and union types.
Duck typing is a form of polymorphism that involves sending messages to objects without knowing their type ahead of time.
C++ has a concept called templates, which allows for generic programming.
Smalltalk has a concept called protocols, which is another way to achieve polymorphism.
Kotlin has a concept called extension functions, which allows for functional programming.
Python has a concept called protocols, which is similar to Smalltalk’s protocols.
Go has a concept called union types, which allows for dispatching based on the type of the variable.
Algebraic data types are a way to define a type that can be one of multiple subtypes.
Parametric polymorphism is a way to define a type that can be used with multiple types.
Leaving out the “questionable benefit” of having a uniform interface can lead to confusion.
C++’s private inheritance is different from public inheritance.
Go’s syntax is simpler because it has fewer keywords.
Smalltalk’s prototype-based programming is different from class-based programming.
C++’s private inheritance is confusing because it introduces a layer of complexity.
Kotlin’s extension functions are useful for functional programming.
Go’s union types are useful for dispatching based on the type of the variable.
C++’s templates are useful for generic programming.
Protections are a way to ensure that a program is safe and secure.

"Polymorphism Unbound" by Bruce Eckel (Strange Loop 2022)

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