Java, C++, VB which one

In today's programming world. Many argue that certain languages are better than others. Saying things like "General Purpose", "Universal Platform", and "Rapid Development". These are all nonsense terms. You will hear them from you boss when you are a staff programmer, or from some idiot professor. The truth is that no one programming language is king of all. If that were true then nearly every company would use it.

I have found a proper measure of a programming language based on three important factors. Purpose, Time, and Skill. Let say you need a program to calculate interest on all the loans your bank presently have issued. This is not a robust task in any way. A simple text-based program can read in your data, and give you the calculations you seek. Then you can apply this data to whatever medium you wish. When the purpose is simple, time is unimportant, and skill of your programmers is low. Java is the clear winner. You can create very stable and powerful applications with ease in a language that looks out for you in every way. A program made in Java can be used on any machine running the Java Virtual Machine.

Let's say you need a program to calculate measurement of 3D objects and track their trajectories. This goes beyond programming and adds an understanding of physics and calculus. Java could do this for you, but it would be more code and runtime than your company would be willing to spend on. I would suggest C++, the reason is clear. You have very complex calculations to compute and need a language that allows for more flexibility. With more flexibility comes consequences. C++ is powerful and will allow you to write code that can potential harm your computer and file-system. Some argue that modern operating systems prevent C++ catastrophes, but as a experienced C++ programmer I know that anything is possible. So when do you choose C++? When the purpose is to create something powerful, when you need it to run at exceptional speed, and when you have developers capable of handling a feature rich language.

Lastly, VB.NET. There are some programming enthusiast that claim VB.NET is a waste of time. I have heard some say "If you spend any time programing in VB.NET you have wasted time you could be programming in C# or C++." I disagree strongly! VB.NET is a wonderful language. Which allows for begginer to professional programmers a way to create fast and beatiful software. A syntax that will feel vary similar to c or java, but with added help. I would use VB to create a program that can allow for fast database editing, and management of data.


Thank You for hearing me out. I know that my opinoins may seem odd, and some other programmers may say I don't know what I am talking about. I respond by saying that I probably don't know what I am talking about. So please tell me where I am wrong and I will be happy to learn.

Matt