From: Timothy Hunter <cyclists@...>
Date: 2005-12-21T07:12:49+09:00
Subject: Re: Bruce Eckel and Ruby

Ryan Leavengood wrote:
> I think the problem he has (like many other Pythonistas, Javans,
> Perlists, etc.) is that Ruby is getting a lot of exposure now thanks
> to Rails, and he feels his livelihood might be threatened by what he
> perceives as simply a fad.

You nailed it, Ryan. This has little (if anything) to do with 
which-language-is-better, and everything to do with earning a living. 
Mr. Eckel makes a good living teaching Java and writing about Java and 
consulting about Java and the adoption of anything other than Java hurts 
his income.

There are a few of us hobbyists that can afford to play dueling 
languages 'cause it's fun and what-the-hell, we've got time, but the 
guys out there traveling and lecturing and writing and teaching and 
consulting have to put food on the table. Bruce Eckel thinks his best 
chance is Java. Bruce  Tate thinks there are greener pastures elsewhere. 
I wish 'em both the best of luck.

Just a thought: a programming language that is free, easy to learn, 
rewards mastery, and has flocks of eager devotees who want to share 
their knowledge for free offers little incentive to a guy who needs to 
earn a living writing and lecturing and teaching and consulting.