Bjarne Stroustrup
Creator of the C++ programming language.
Most quoted
"There are two ways of constructing a software design: One way is to make it so simple that there are obviously no deficiencies, and the other way is to make it so complicated that there are no obvious deficiencies."
— from Often attributed, widely circulated
"The problem with C is that it's too easy to shoot yourself in the foot. The problem with C++ is that it gives you a loaded gun, and then tells you to go ahead and shoot yourself in the foot, but with style."
— from Humorous anecdote (often attributed, not a private letter)
"C++ is a general-purpose programming language with a bias towards systems programming that supports efficient low-level computation, data abstraction, object-oriented programming, and generic programming."
— from The C++ Programming Language (2nd Edition), 1991
All quotes by Bjarne Stroustrup (360)
The only thing worse than a bad program is a good program that nobody uses.
If you want to build a ship, don't drum up people to collect wood and don't assign them tasks and work, but rather teach them to long for the endless immensity of the sea.
The only way to get rid of a temptation is to yield to it.
C++ is a language for serious programmers. If you're not serious, you shouldn't be using it.
The most important property of a program is whether it accomplishes the intention of its user.
I'm not a fan of 'magic' in programming. I prefer to know how things work.
The only way to write good code is to write a lot of bad code first.
C++ is like a chainsaw. It's powerful, but if you don't know how to use it, you can hurt yourself.
The purpose of a programming language is to help programmers solve problems.
I don't believe in silver bullets. I believe in hard work and good tools.
C++ is not just a language; it's a way of thinking.
The only way to make progress is to admit that you don't know everything.
I'm not interested in making C++ easy. I'm interested in making it powerful.
C++ is a language that rewards careful thought and planning.
The only way to write good software is to write it for yourself first.
I don't believe in 'best practices.' I believe in 'effective practices.'
The best way to learn is by doing.
C++ is a language that allows you to express your ideas directly, without getting in your way.
The only way to make a program faster is to make it do less.
I'm not a fan of 'design patterns.' I'm a fan of good design.
Contemporaries of Bjarne Stroustrup
Other Computer Sciences born within 50 years of Bjarne Stroustrup (1950).