[PD] "object" or "class" in pdpedia

[Ed Kelly]

>> The term "class" has not really been used in Pd land much at all.
>> The term "object" has been used for both classes and instances
> Just to clarify. Abstractions are classes too? Such that an instance
> of an abstraction is called an object?


Well...everything in PD is an abject if it is saved as an abstraction, or an external. Perhaps the distinction between abstractions and externals is quite relevant, since one is coded in PD and the other in C, C++, Python, Ruby etc. One requires PD, the other requires compilation, paths etc. If we are going to make an accessible form of documentation for PD then surely it makes sense to start from the outside - where most people approaching PD will begin. Within PD, the boundaries between object and abstraction are deliberately blurred - which is useful for programmers. Outside, it is not obvious which is which. Distinguishing between the two - and defining them - is important for newcomers to the project.

The biggest problem I had when approaching PD for the first time, as an artist knowing nothing about C etc, was getting externs I wanted to use working (in 2000 with RedHat 5.2)

Matju, I'm already in love with your cat, but I am unfortunately allergic to cats and will therefore weep at the sight of it.

Best,
Ed


Lone Shark "Aviation" out now on http://www.pyramidtransmissions.com
http://www.myspace.com/sharktracks
       
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