Explaining free theorems and functional programming to a six-year-old
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Summary
A programmer recounts an attempt to explain functional programming concepts, specifically free theorems, to their six-year-old child. The article explores the challenge of breaking down abstract computer science ideas into simple, relatable terms for a young child, using analogies like machines and boxes to describe functions and type signatures.
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Hacker NewsExplaining free theorems and functional programming to a six-year-oldbyorgey.wordpress.comKey quotes
· 4 pulledMy six-year-old son walked up to me yesterday. "What are you reading?"
"I'm reading a very long story about free theorems."
"A function is like a machine where you put something in one end and something comes out the other end."
Never one to shrink from a pedagogical challenge, I thought for a moment, then began...
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