Why PHP Is Often Disliked Yet Widely Used in 2024
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Chapter 1: The Perception of PHP
Recent discussions have labeled PHP as one of the most disliked programming languages in the tech community. Interestingly, a significant number of websites continue to be built using PHP, despite the negative sentiments expressed by some developers. This contradiction raises questions about the actual standing of PHP in the programming landscape.
Many developers develop a strong allegiance to the programming languages they prefer, much like they do with their development environments. This loyalty can lead to derision for anything outside their choice—be it Windows, Mac, or Linux.
Section 1.1: The Influence of Popular Opinion
Often, programmers are swayed by prevailing opinions or articles regarding a particular technology without fully understanding the context. Those who follow the crowd rather than forming their own conclusions based on research and experience risk becoming mere followers of trends.
Section 1.2: The Ego Factor in Language Preference
When programmers have limited exposure to various languages, they tend to view their chosen language as the superior option. This often results in a dismissive attitude toward other languages, regardless of their capabilities. For instance, some developers might mock PHP while lacking knowledge about its recent advancements.
Chapter 2: Understanding PHP’s Strengths and Weaknesses
Criticism of PHP often stems from experiences with outdated versions or poor coding practices. Many who disparage PHP may have only interacted with earlier iterations, unaware of improvements introduced in PHP 8.1, which is now faster than Node.js.
It’s essential to recognize that disparaging a language often comes from a lack of familiarity or negative personal experiences. Effective programming requires understanding the strengths and weaknesses of various languages rather than clinging to ego-driven preferences.
In my experience as a web application developer, I utilize both JavaScript and PHP based on the demands of the project and the practicality of each language. Throughout my career, I've explored multiple programming languages and will continue to do so.
Ultimately, while PHP does have its shortcomings, it’s important to remember that every programming language has its unique characteristics and challenges. The disdain some have for PHP often reflects ignorance and fear rather than an objective assessment of its capabilities.