Re: [boost] Serialization and Reflection

From: David Abrahams (dave_at_[hidden])
Date: 2002-12-20 17:52:30

brangdon_at_[hidden] (Dave Harris) writes:

> In-Reply-To: <uisxog1kw.fsf_at_[hidden]>
> On Fri, 20 Dec 2002 10:19:27 -0500 David Abrahams 
> (dave_at_[hidden]) wrote:
>> As I understand it, reflection means the ability to
>> discern the structure of language constructs.
>
> In some languages it is not just reading. It includes the ability to 
> interact - to assign to variables, invoke functions, create instances of 
> classes. Even to add or remove new variables, functions and classes.
>
> I probably shouldn't say much more about this because reflection isn't 
> something I'm aware of needing in C++.

Oh, I need it.  I do as much as I can with C++ for Boost.Python, but I
need so much more... ;-)

>> Hmm, how does an object factory relate to reflection?
>
> Whatever we call it, the ability to defer choice of the exact created type 
> until runtime has utility beyond serialisation.

Yup.

-- 
                       David Abrahams
   dave_at_[hidden] * http://www.boost-consulting.com
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