Moore, Kenneth A wrote:
> I was hoping for a more convenient (or easier to read, harder to make a
> mistake) syntax. Again, an example may illustrate my point:
>
> JavaScript (assuming object valued properties):
>
> myCallsign = myProgram.LocalStation.NetworkAffiliation.Callsign;
>
> as compared to Jess:
>
> (bind ?myCallsign (get-member (get-member (get-member ?myProgram
> LocalStation) NetworkAffiliation) Callsign))
>
> Couldn't an alternative syntax for Jess be (see * below):
>
> (bind ?myCallsign ?myProgram.LocalStation.NetworkAffiliation.Callsign)
BUT in JavaScript the '.' operator means "get" -- in Jess, the
'get' operator means '.'
> My main point here is that when management chooses between two late bound
> languages (JavaScript vs. Jess), the camp that advocates JavaScript can
> always point to the *somewhat* awkward syntax required by Jess (please, no
> flames from Lisp lovers ;-)
>
> Even though the two languages are very different in nature/capability, you
> will be surprised at the small things that can hasten the adoption of an
> inferior technology over a great one (form vs. function -- sounds like
> fashion doesn't it...)
>
> JavaScript authors access the object model repeatedly and if at every turn
> they had to double check the parentheses etc. they would be loath to adopt
> new tricks.
>
> Comments?
>
> * Note: I fully recognize the efforts put into making Jess what it is
> today. I don't want to sound like I am complaining but I have to "sell"
> this technology to my management in the near future and would like to remove
> roadblocks before I get there.
But Jess and JavaScript are two VERY different tools, each with
their own niche. If "management" is gonna choose one over the
other for syntax, then "management" will have larger problems
than just "double check[ing] the parentheses."
If syntax is your problem, then use Emacs or something -- or
write your ES in JavaScript.
--
Austin http://havoc.gtf.gatech.edu/austin Slave to The Man
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