The “does Python have variables?” debate

[Marko Rauhamaa]

Ben Finney <ben at benfinney.id.au>:

> Marko Rauhamaa <marko at pacujo.net> writes:
>
>> I don't think flogging the beginner for talking about variables helps
>> them get Python's data model. All that accomplishes is that they will
>> shut up about variables in the fear of being flogged and not
>> understand the data model any better.
>
> Who does that? I haven't seen anyone raising this topic with a
> beginner in a hostile manner (“flogging”? why the hyperbole?), and
> it's certainly not characteristic of how the topic is raised here.

Flogging, spanking, admonishing, whatever.

> I don't know what your point is, but please don't prop up straw men to
> make it.

Does that count as admonishing, at least?

Point being, shunning the term "variable" is counterproductive. Python
variables are nothing special and calling them "variables" doesn't
mislead anybody.


Marko