Learning Computer Science via Assembly Language

johnnyb writes " A new book was just released which is based on a new concept - teaching computer science through assembly language (Linux x86 assembly language, to be exact). This book teaches how the machine itself operates, rather than just the language. I've found that the key difference between mediocre and excellent programmers is whether or not they know assembly language. Those that do tend to understand computers themselves at a much deeper level. Although unheard of today, this concept isn't really all that new -- there used to not be much choice in years past. Apple computers came with only BASIC and assembly language, and there were books available on assembly language for kids. This is why the old-timers are often viewed as 'wizards': they had to know assembly language programming. Perhaps this current obsession with learning using 'easy' languages is the wrong way to do things. High-level languages are great, but learning them will never teach you about computers. Perhaps it's time that computer science curriculums start teaching assembly language first."

Comments

Obvious..

[appleLaserWriter]

This assembly language, it speaks Hindi?

Here this India?

[airrage]

Please learn Assembly, we need it.

Thanks,
America

Re:Here this India?

[The Ape With No Name]

HEAR this Americans: we speak English too.

Thanks,

India

Re:Linux x86 assembly?

[NanoGator]

"And a win kernel is the road to Hades."

At least the Monica Lewinski jokes finally died down.