15312 Foundations Of Programming Languages - [2021]
In the 1950s, Noam Chomsky’s work on formal grammars was adapted to computing. became the standard way to describe syntax. For example, a simple arithmetic expression:
In the world of software development, programming languages are often viewed as mere tools—interchangeable hammers used to build applications. However, the study of the "foundations" of these languages (as epitomized by the 15-312 curriculum) treats them as sophisticated mathematical objects. Rather than focusing on syntax or "how to code," the discipline explores the intrinsic logic that governs computation, seeking to answer a fundamental question: How can we prove that a program will behave exactly as intended? The Formal Framework: Syntax and Semantics In the 1950s, Noam Chomsky’s work on formal
The "heart" of these foundations is . In this context, types are not just labels for data (like integers or strings); they are formal specifications. The central mantra of the course— “Progress and Preservation” —defines the safety of a language: Rather than focusing on syntax or "how to
Precise mathematical descriptions of how programs transition from one state to another during execution. Key Concepts Covered