Proposal: min(None, x) and max(None, x) return x

[Anton Vredegoor]

On Fri, 22 Nov 2002 22:21:47 -0800, Erik Max Francis <max at alcyone.com>
wrote:

>Well, it was obviously done for mathematical reasons -- there is
>explicitly no ordering defined for complex numbers.  In the light of
>Python's inclination to allow comparison of arbitrary, heterogeneous
>types, it certainly does have the feel of a wart, despite its
>mathematical correctness.

The problem with stable orderings and -- to generalize -- with
"status quo" situations is that they are seductive. Seductive is meant
in the sense that they present themselves as the only viable
alternative, while for creativity to have a chance it is necessary to
contemplate the alternatives. This conflict between stability and
change reveals itself - no wonder - when trying to sort *imaginary*
numbers. Related concepts: premature optimization, lexicographic
ordering, the root of all evil.

Regards,
      		Anton.

---
         Coming to Meet. The maiden is powerful.
         One should not marry such a maiden.


(I Ching 44)