Programming Language Rants: Computerphile Team's Least Favorites

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In this riveting discussion, the Computerphile team delves into the world of programming languages, revealing their least favorites with unapologetic candor. From the universally loathed JavaScript, infamous for its perplexing hoisting feature, to the personally developed "converge" language born out of a PhD endeavor, each member spares no detail in expressing their disdain. PHP finds itself on the chopping block for being deemed outdated, while Lisp is criticized for its excessive use of brackets, leaving a bitter taste in the team's mouths.
The relentless assault continues as Python is called out for its dynamically determined data types, sparking frustration among the programmers. However, it is JavaScript that bears the brunt of the team's wrath, with its ever-evolving library landscape and constant need for code rewrites driving them to the edge. The nostalgia for stability and predictability in programming is palpable, as one member laments the chaotic nature of JavaScript and longs for a simpler era where changes were a rarity.
As the conversation unfolds, Java faces scrutiny for its overuse in the speaker's programming endeavors, while COBOL emerges as a surprising contender for the title of the worst programming language. The team's disdain for COBOL stems from its archaic and cumbersome nature, with one member recounting a humorous anecdote about the last COBOL programmer in a futuristic setting. Through their candid and at times comical revelations, the Computerphile team sheds light on the tumultuous relationship programmers have with certain languages, showcasing the diverse range of grievances that plague the coding world.

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Image copyright Youtube

Image copyright Youtube

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Viewer Reactions for What's Your Least Favourite Programming Language? (2024 soundcheck question) - Computerphile
Bjarne Stroustrup's quote on programming languages
JavaScript receiving hate
COBOL's complexity and readability issues
Visual Basic for Applications
COBOL still used in Dutch government systems
Issues with JavaScript's type coercion and equality operators
XSLT as a programming language
Preference for statically typed languages
Dislike for Python typing and readability
Preference for JavaScript's unstructured nature
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