[Python-Dev] PEP 3003 - Python Language Moratorium

[geremy condra]

On Sun, Nov 8, 2009 at 6:06 PM, Steven D'Aprano <steve at pearwood.info> wrote:
> On Sun, 8 Nov 2009 11:14:59 am Steven D'Aprano wrote:
>> At the very least, I believe, any moratorium should have a clear end
>> date. A clear end date will be a powerful counter to the impression
>> that Python the language is moribund. It says, this is an exceptional
>> pause, not a permanent halt.
>
> Proposal:
>
> No new language features in odd-numbered point releases (3.3, 3.5, ...).
> Even-numbered point releases (3.4, 3.6, ...) may include new language
> features provided they meet the usual standards for new features.
>
> 3.2 is a special case: as an even-numbered release, it would normally
> allow new features, but in recognition of the special nature of the 2.x
> to 3.1/3.2 migration, no new language features will be allowed.
>
> Advantages:
>
> * It slows down changes to the language while still allowing
> sufficiently high-standard new features.
>
> * Alternate implementations have a stable language version to aim for.
> Assuming point releases come ever 12-18 months, that stable language
> version will last 2-3 years.
>
> * It doesn't have the psychological baggage of an unconditional ban on
> new features for the indefinite future. It gives a fixed, known
> schedule for when new features will be permitted, without the
> uncertainty of "at the BDFL's pleasure".
>
>
> --
> Steven D'Aprano


FWIW, I view a definite end point as a definite plus.

Geremy Condra