This morning was the  May CTO Breakfast
coordinated by Phil Windley.  There was a good group of people,
and the usual varied topics.  I came in a little late and so I
missed the beginning conversations, however we quickly moved into
languages.

We spent a good bit of time talking about computer languages … from COBOL to APL,
C to Java to C#.  I linked to APL since we spent some time on APL,
and talking about what the core values were of this language.  I
suggested that computer languages have evolved to meeting the demands
of individuals who want to describe or communicate an abstract concept
into a form that a computer can use and process.  There is a huge
human side to computer languages … the computer language of choice
seems to be related to the ability of the individual to express their
ideas – the abstract thought, concept, or process – in that
language.  In addition, it was brought up that there could be a
better language that is more effective or efficient for that individual
… however they might not have ever taken the time to learn that
language.

Another point that was brought up was how corporations and developers
often develop in the languages they know … even though it might be
far more cost effective to develop the solution in a different
language.  One thing that is changing all of this is the
translation of software source code into intermediate langauges that
are executed by various run-time engines.

The subject of differences in global cultures – from here in the USA,
to Europe and China – also came up, and the motiviation of younger
generations in these other countries.  We ended up talking about
how “guilt and humiliation” can often be good motivators, and are
present in other cultures.  In addition, we talked about the
various role models that are present here in our country.

Finally, the topic of schools and education came up.  It was
interesting to hear the various points of view about our education
systems in the country, and how it is the parents involvement that
directly relates to the behavior and participation of the student.

Overall … as usual … a very interesting set of discussions. 
Of course afterwards I spent some time chatting with Phil about some of
our ideas, and some of the projects that I am working on.  I’m
about to announce a demonstration of one of them … and there is one
that I might be able to work with Phil on.  We’ll see …