Gene said:
You prevaricate very well. (prevaricate: to selectively tell the
truth in order to mislead) I suggest that a Java newbie start with an
introductory text and use the JLS later.
I never said a newbie should avoid introductory texts. Nor do I suggest
that a newbie rely on the JLS. You have misunderstood my points yet again.
I agree that introductory texts are great to introduce Java.
My objection is to the active discouragement of the use of the JLS.
I recommend that newbies be aware of the JLS and practice reading
it from an early age. That is not so inconsistent with your recommendation.
As for calling me a liar, screw you.
>I don't demand that anyone read the JLS. I just point out that it has the
>answers, that for the most part it's readable and that the more obscure parts
>are amenable to study, and that it's worthwhile. Those who excoriate its use,
>as opposed to, say, recommending that one work with additional material as
>well, are leading the rest astray. I really don't understand this rabid
>rejection of such a useful resource.
But we do not reject it. By stating that we do, you get to score
points. That sort of behaviour has gotten old.
But you have rejected it, repeatedly.
>Those of you without an irrational fear of the JLS should judge for
>yourselves. Don't be afraid of it because the Genes of the world are trying to
>frighten you away from its use. Oh, don't use it as your only source, not even
>after you've gained familiarity with it and with Java, but by all means use
>it. Gene is wrong to discourage that.
Again, I do not do that.
Lew, why do you keep turning things into unpleasant arguments?
There is a big difference between disagreeing and being disagreeable.
How about trying the former for a change?
How about you stop trying to frighten folks away from the JLS?
If you agree with me that it's a valuable resource of which to be aware,
and that one should aspire to its use eventually, then why do you argue
with me?
It is you who resorts to name calling and unpleasantness. It is a raw
tactic for you to accuse me of being "disagreeable" because you don't
agree that the JLS is a valuable resource. I am disagreeing so adamantly
because your continued speech against it is likely to discourage those
who would most benefit from it. You are performing a disservice to the
Java community, and when called on it, resort to name-calling and
ad hominem attacks.
I am only suggesting a balanced approach wherein from the very
start a Java programmer is aware of the definitive definition of
the language, and of the value of being able to use it. I am astounded
that anyone finds that objectionable, much less resorts to the sort
of underhanded responses in which you engaged.