Will the fundamentals of C.S. remain unchanged 300 years from now?

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The discussion centers on the enduring nature of computer science fundamentals, particularly data structures, algorithm theory, and automata theory, in comparison to established fields like mathematics and physics. Participants draw parallels between the stability of calculus and classical mechanics over centuries and question whether similar longevity can be expected in computer science. The conversation also touches on the implications of emerging technologies, such as quantum computing, which may alter foundational concepts like binary logic in programming.

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  • Understanding of data structures and algorithms
  • Familiarity with automata theory
  • Basic knowledge of quantum computing principles
  • Conceptual grasp of historical mathematical theories, such as calculus
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  • Research the impact of quantum computing on traditional algorithms
  • Explore the evolution of data structures over the last century
  • Study the historical development of automata theory
  • Investigate the philosophical implications of foundational theories in mathematics and computer science
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This discussion is beneficial for computer science students, educators, and professionals interested in the long-term relevance of foundational concepts in the field, as well as those exploring the implications of quantum computing on established theories.

vectorcube
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I study a lot of C.S courses. One question i have is this: How much of what i learn about data structures+ algorithm theory, and autamato theory would be the same 300 years from now.


Here is what i mean. If you can look at math, and physics. calculus is the same now as if was 300 years ago( Essentially). Similarly, with physics, classical mechanics is still as applicable today as it was 300 years ago. Can we confidently say that the tools of computer science will be as enduring as the tools of the physicists( ex: classical mechanics) , and mathematicians(Ex: calculus)?
 
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vectorcube said:
I study a lot of C.S courses. One question i have is this: How much of what i learn about data structures+ algorithm theory, and autamato theory would be the same 300 years from now.Here is what i mean. If you can look at math, and physics. calculus is the same now as if was 300 years ago( Essentially). Similarly, with physics, classical mechanics is still as applicable today as it was 300 years ago. Can we confidently say that the tools of computer science will be as enduring as the tools of the physicists( ex: classical mechanics) , and mathematicians(Ex: calculus)?
Is calculus essentially the same?

When I took my analysis courses, I was given the impression that Leibniz and Newton used a lot of stuff that was philosophically problematic and outright wrong. The rigorous formulation of calculus as we know it occurred in the time of guys like Cauchy and Weierstrass. That's in the early 1800s, right?

Swerving back on topic, I kinda wonder about this myself as I prepare to enter algorithms this next term.
 
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The one thing that comes to mind is quantum computing. Right now, an if statement is based on true or false. In a quantum computer, I would imagine that it would have to change to true, false, or maybe.
 

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