The Eric Normand Podcast Why Functional Programming Matters
Jul 13, 2020
Dive into the world of functional programming! Discover how higher-order functions and lazy evaluation serve as essential tools in simplifying complex code. Explore the historical impact of structured programming and its emphasis on modular design. Learn about the powerful foldR function for list processing and the benefits of referential transparency. Reflect on the advantages of functional programming in managing resources efficiently while critiquing common misconceptions. This discussion sheds light on the evolution of programming paradigms and their practical applications.
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Functional Programming's Glue
- Modular programming needs "glue" to combine subproblem solutions.
- Functional programming offers higher-order functions and lazy evaluation as new glues.
Defining Functional Programming
- Defining functional programming by what it lacks (mutation, side effects) is inadequate.
- A positive definition should explain its power and provide a goal to strive towards.
Power in Omission?
- Omitting features cannot make a language more powerful.
- Functional programming’s power lies in enabling new ways of modularization.