Theories of Programming Languages

Description

This textbook is a broad but rigorous survey of the theoretical basis for the design, definition, and implementation of programming languages, and of systems for specifying and proving program behaviour. Both imperative and functional programming are covered, as well as the ways of integrating these aspects into more general languages. Basic concepts and their properties are described with mathematical rigour, but the mathematical development is balanced by numerous examples of applications, particularly of program specification and proof, concurrent programming, functional programming (including the use of continuations and lazy evaluation), and type systems (including subtyping, polymorphism, and modularization). Assuming only knowledge of elementary programming, this text is perfect for advanced undergraduate and beginning graduate courses in programming language theory, and will also appeal to researchers and professionals in designing or implementing computer languages.

'The book covers many aspects of computer language, all the time focusing on the fundamental principles. The would-be language designer would profit from studying this text.' CVU 'The coverage is impressive, both for its breadth and for its consistently high quality ... the author does an excellent job of making the material as accessible as possible ... If you are starting in computer science, then this book should be on your shelves.' Brian Scattergood, Overload 33 'Each chapter contains valuable exercises and profound bibliographic notes that can serve as a starting point for further reading. I shall use this excellent textbook in my lectures.' Computing Reviews 'This is clearly an important book ... it is thorough and well organized, and the explanations are very clear. I found the technical content to be in almost every respect flawless, and the book seems to be virtually typo-free.' R. D. Tennent, Journal of Functioning Programming