GOTO - The Brightest Minds in Tech Java Generics and Collections • Maurice Naftalin & Stuart Marks
Jan 9, 2026
Maurice Naftalin, a Java specialist and co-author of "Java Generics & Collections", joins Stuart Marks from Oracle to discuss key updates in the new second edition of their seminal book. They explore the evolution of Java, including the transition to immutability and the introduction of sequenced collections in Java 21. The duo tackles design challenges like encapsulation pitfalls, the unmodifiable vs. immutable distinction, and warns against the anemic domain model. With decades of experience, they share valuable insights and usage guidance for modern Java developers.
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Java Style Evolved, Core API Endures
- Java has evolved stylistically since Java 5, but core collection usage remains valid.
- New language features like records and streams changed how examples are written and thought about.
Use Factory Methods For Fixed Collections
- Prefer factory methods like List.of, Set.of and Map.of when collections are fixed.
- Use unmodifiable collections instead of mutable constructors for modern Java style.
Streams Promote Copy-Then-Create Patterns
- Streams encourage creating transformed copies rather than mutating collections in place.
- This copying pattern pairs naturally with unmodifiable collections and a more immutable style.
