Abstract
As scientific and technological tools, computers have proved so useful that computer science is widely regarded as a technological discipline whose purpose is to create problem-solving tools for other disciplines. Within computer science there is a group of theoreticians who build mathematical models of computational processes. Yet computer science is neither a branch of technology nor a branch of mathematics. It involves a new way of thinking about computational schemes that is partly technological and partly mathematical but contains a unique ingredient that differs qualitatively from those of traditional disciplines. This chapter illustrates the special quality that distinguishes computer science from technology and mathematics by the means of examples from the emerging theory of programming languages. The computer revolution is comparable to the industrial revolution. Just as machines have reduced the physical drudgery of man, computers are reducing his mental drudgery. The central role played by “energy” in the industrial revolution is replaced in the computer revolution by “information.” This chapter focuses on technological and scientific programming languages and mathematical models related to computers.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
