Exploring the Origin of 'Calling Functions' in Programming
By
todsacerdoti
If you only eat one bagel today, this is the bagel.
Summary
The article discusses the origin of the term 'calling a function' in programming, drawing analogies to summoning, requesting a service, and making a phone call. It explores the historical context of 'calling for' a subroutine from a library, linking it to the concept of 'calling' a function.
Key quotes
· 3 pulledCalling a function is like calling on a friend — we go, we stay a while, we come back.
Calling a function is like calling for a servant — a summoning to perform a task.
Calling a function is like making a phone call — we ask a question and get an answer from outside ourselves.
You might also wanna read
Assemblage Mapping as a Tool for Accountability in AI-Supported Legal Advice
This article examines how AI is reshaping legal advice at the infrastructure level, arguing that legally consequential guidance is increasin
slsa.ac.uk·45m agoWhy Jet Aircraft Use Generators Instead of Alternators for Electrical Power
This article explains why modern jet aircraft use generators instead of alternators for their electrical systems. It covers the fundamental
New free course teaches researchers how to improve Wikipedia citations and field visibility
A new free online course called "Wikipedia for Researchers: Building reliable knowledge through citations" has been launched on WikiLearn. C
diff.wikimedia.org·1h agoWordPress Accessibility Day 2026: Call for Sponsors
A call for sponsors for WordPress Accessibility Day 2026, a volunteer-led nonprofit conference focused on web accessibility education. Spons
buff.ly·3h agoA Comprehensive Guide to Digital Accessibility Technologies for Computer Users with Disabilities
This article provides a comprehensive overview of digital accessibility technologies designed to help people with disabilities use computers
Engineering Professor Explains How Electric Cars Work and Answers Common EV Questions
Professor Willett Kempton, an electrical and computer engineering expert from the University of Delaware, answers common internet questions
