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+ - Best language to learn functional programming? 2

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Fished writes "A couple of recent articles here on Slashdot have made reference to Functional Programming, which forces me to admit a weakness. Despite programming since the age of 6 (literally) and using snippets of Emacs LISP for almost 20 years, I've never really mastered a Functional language. Since I learn a new programming language every year to keep from getting stale, I've decided that this year I'm going to correct that. So, here's the question: first, what's the best language for a new-comer to functional programming? I recognize that Python and Ruby incorporate some functional features, but I want to learn a pure functional language that will force me to master the functional paradigm. Obviously, LISP is a choice, but I'm not sure that its the best choice. Ideally, I want a language and an environment that will let me write something useful. Second, what books, websites, and tools would you recommend for someone new to Functional programming?"

Best language to learn functional programming?

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  • I'd recommend O'Caml for several reasons:

    1. it's statically typed, unlike LISP
    2. it has a fine emacs mode, and you sound familiar with that environment
    3. it boasts a top-level read-eval-print loop, which is great for learning
    4. it sports an excellent native-code compiler, which is well-suited to building actual applications
    5. it has a vibrant user community with fairly active developers
    6. there are lots of libraries and bindings for doing things like X programming, SDL, Gtk, etc.

    Although it's not "pure" in the sense that
