WHY is python slow?

[Steven Haryanto]

Although it is generally accepted that Python is slower than
Java/Perl/Ruby, a layman like me would be curious to know why
exactly this is so. In other words, why is the implementation
of a language like Ruby (which is on par with Python in terms
of 'everything is an object', strong reflection, dynamic
nature).

My first guess would be the ubiquitous use of dictionaries?

Steve
http://stevne.haryan.to/