C++: an invisible foundation

C++ is one of the key foundations of our software – including much of the open source software becoming fundamental for data science. It is invisible to most people because they use it only indirectly. It's in your computer and your phone. It's in the machines that manufacture your computer and your phone. It's in most cars, including all the self-driving ones. It's on Mars and in deep sea robots. It's what runs your JavaScript, Java virtual machine, and your Python AI/ML scripts. I will briefly explain what technical aspects of C++ make it so useful. I will focus on design principles, but also touch upon resource management and what it takes to be efficient in various contexts. Finally, I will comment on the challenges facing the C++ community.

The Berkeley Distinguished Lectures in Data Science, co-hosted by the Berkeley Institute for Data Science (BIDS) and the Berkeley Division of Data Sciences, is offered to engage our diverse campus community and enrich active connections among colleagues.  All campus community members are welcome and encouraged to attend.