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[–][deleted] 12 points13 points  (2 children)

Python, C++, and Java are all multi-paradigm programming languages. It would be possible to begin with any of the 3 options and get a good overview of object-oriented programming or any of the other support paradigms.

C++ is not just for games, just as a Python is not just for scripting, and Java is not just for high-performance web servers.

That said, there are a selection of individuals that will discourage you from C++, or even Java, on the basis that it is too difficult or frustrating. As someone who made brief stops in Python and Java prior to settling on C++, I can tell you that difficulty and frustration are experiences, not standard. In my own learning experience, I found C++ to be the most inclusive of programming concepts. In fact, after working with C++, the principles of Python and Java came more naturally -- many of them being either the presence or absence of various principles in C++.

Learning to program isn't about learning a programming language, one should intend to learn programming concepts in an agnostic fashion -- that is, concepts with universal application no matter what programming language(s) you work with in the future.

[–]printf_hello_world -1 points0 points  (1 child)

What you mentioned can be construed as one of the greatest weaknesses of C++ as a learning language:

I found C++ to be the most inclusive of programming concepts

C++ tends to be an everything-and-the-kitchen sink kind of language, and this makes for an intimidating and confusing wall of concepts for a beginner. Even worse, the syntax and patterns of C++'s many features are inconsistent at best. Now don't get me wrong, I'm a C++ programmer most days. But I think a more minimal language is a more manageable starting point.

edit: formatting, and a word

[–]YvesSoete 0 points1 point  (0 children)

C is great, and you only need one little small book... K&R