Classical computer science texts

Thursday 26 February 2004

E7L3 (Eberhard Lutz) maintains a list of Classical Computer Science Texts (should be Classic, but I quibble). There are some really interesting papers here, including Iverson first trying to explain APL, and Codd first explaining relational databases. E7L3 also has pointers to online books of interest.

tagged: comp sci, history   /   via: Simon Willison» 2 reactions

Comments

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Eric W. Bachtal 11:49 AM on 26 Feb 2004

What a great resource - thanks so much!

Regarding "classical" vs. "classic", I agree, but then what do I know. Merriam Webster says they are essentially the same thing with meanings like "traditional; authentic; enduring; typical or standard", so they seem to be interchangeable adjectives. However, the most common meaning ascribed to "classical" is "of or relating to the ancient Greek and Roman world and especially to its literature, art, architecture, or ideals", while "classic" is most often described as "serving as a standard of excellence : of recognized value".

I often run into the same thing with "historical" and "historic".

Anyway, thanks again!

[gravatar]
Justin Knol 12:39 AM on 27 Feb 2004

Ned,
I always enjoy your writing and the links you find.

Thanks
Justin

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