Could Python supplant Java?

[Rex Ballard]

Nick Ruisi wrote:

> .net compiled code can run on linux with the mono CLR
> (http://www.go-mono.com). One can use the mono tool kit to write /
> compile .Net code on a linux box, without ever touching a
> microsoft product.

Not entirely true.  I spend quite a bit of time discussing this 
with Michael Icaza.  By his own estimate, he has about 20% of the 
engineering required to actually configure .NET.  While it is true 
that he has a marginally functional C# compiler, the "family 
jewels" are still controlled by Microsoft.  Keep in mind that .NET 
is not only a set of development languages, but also a set of 
components, schemas, and infrastructures, most of which have NOT 
been put into any form of Open Source.

>  The compiler and SDK for C# and VB.Net is a free (albeit
> large) download. Although I don't like VB.Net as a language, C# is
> fine. It's just like java.


The fundamental difference is that Java was designed with the 
intent that all of the components and parts had to be capable of 
running on ANY platform which supports Java.  Microsoft's .NET not 
only has no such requirement, but is considered counter to 
Microsoft's strategic practices.

Microsoft has provided enough to create the illusion of 
availability, but at the same time, has witheld the most critical 
components.  They did the same thing with DCOM when CORBA 
threatened to establish a standard which would have been  beyond 
Microsoft's control.  Just as Softwawre AG began to create the 
ability to create and integrate with existing Windows components, 
and especially when they started to create UNIX Client 
capabilities, Microsoft pulled the plug.

Microsoft MIGHT be willing to offer server capabilities, but they 
will not easily or willingly surrender those components which would 
permit the implementation of a Linux desktop interface to .NET.

-- 
Rex Ballard
Enterprise/B2B IT Architect
Visionary for the Linux community
http://www.open4success.com