1.1.3.4 Python - a tool, not a reptile | Why Python, why not?

Python rivals?

Python has two direct competitors, with comparable properties and predispositions. These are:

• Perl - a scripting language originally authored by Larry Wall;
• Ruby - a scripting language originally authored by Yukihiro Matsumoto.

The former is more traditional, more conservative than Python, and resembles some of the good old languages derived from the classic C programming language.

In contrast, the latter is more innovative and more full of fresh ideas than Python. Python itself lies somewhere between these two creations.

The Internet is full of forums with infinite discussions on the superiority of one of these three over the others, should you wish to learn more about each of them.

Where can we see Python in action?

We see it every day and almost everywhere. It's used extensively to implement complex Internet services like search engines, cloud storage and tools, social media and so on. Whenever you use any of these services, you are actually very close to Python, although you wouldn't know it.

Many developing tools are implemented in Python. More and more everyday use applications are being written in Python. Lots of scientists have abandoned expensive proprietary tools and switched to Python. Lots of IT project testers have started using Python to carry out repeatable test procedures. The list is long.

Why not Python?

Despite Python's growing popularity, there are still some niches where Python is absent, or is rarely seen:

• low-level programming (sometimes called "close to metal" programming): if you want to implement an extremely effective driver or graphical engine, you wouldn't use Python;
• applications for mobile devices: although this territory is still waiting to be conquered by Python, it will most likely happen someday.