[Numpy-discussion] Re: [Python-Dev] Re: Numeric life as I see it

[konrad.hinsen at laposte.net]

On 10.02.2005, at 05:36, Guido van Rossum wrote:

> And why would a Matrix need to inherit from a C-array? Wouldn't it
> make more sense from an OO POV for the Matrix to *have* a C-array
> without *being* one?

Definitely. Most array operations make no sense on matrices. And  
matrices are limited to two dimensions. Making Matrix a subclass of  
Array would be inheritance for implementation while removing 90% of the  
interface.

On the other hand, a Matrix object is perfectly defined by its  
behaviour and independent of its implementation. One could perfectly  
well implement one using Python lists or dictionaries, even though that  
would be pointless from a performance point of view.

Konrad.
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Konrad Hinsen
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