Learning Python for no reason

[CM]

On May 12, 1:27 pm, "John Salerno" <johnj... at NOSPAMgmail.com> wrote:
> Just something that crosses my mind every time I delve into "Learning
> Python" each night. Does anyone see any value in learning Python when you
> don't need to for school, work, or any other reason? I mean, sure, there's
> value in learning anything at any time, but for something like a programming
> language, I can't help but feel that I will be mostly unable to use what I
> learn simply because I have no reason to use it.
>
> The *process* of learning is enough fun for me, and every now and then I do
> find a small use for Python that really pays off, but for the most part I'm
> wondering what people's thoughts are as far as simply learning it for the
> sake of learning. Does it seem like a silly endeavor to most people? Did
> anyone here learn a programming language when you didn't need to? If so, how
> much and in what capacity did you use it after you learned it?
>
> Hopefully this question even makes sense!

I think learning something only for the sake of learning is valid only
if it is really fun for you to learn that topic.  That is, it is a
hobby that brings you enjoyment.  If it is like pulling teeth and you
know you are barely ever going to use it, of course stop trying to
learn Python.  Life is too short.  Go outside.

But I think there is a huge difference between learning Python if you
know nothing about computer programming and if you already know
another language (or more).  I'd say in the first case, don't put
yourself through the trouble of learning a computer language if you
know you don't like it or won't use it--it's after all just an
arbitrary language for talking to a machine.  But if you are already
programming in another language, learning Python is probably
recommendable from the point of view of career or just understanding
programming better.

Most importantly, rarely are any cases so clear-cut as I've described
them.  Usually something is partially fun, partially a pain, partially
useful, etc.  So, it's your call.