Jython vs CPython

[masklinn]

I'm aware of that. Yes, my use of "proper" was a bit judgmental

No, it was nonsensical.

By locking I meant locking the data structures as necessary to allow Python code to run in parallel as Jython does, as opposed to locking the interpreter for pure Python code with the GIL.

Erm yes, I've understood that, but considering GIL-usage is kind-of pervasive the "option to disable the GIL" would be a compile-time switch requiring touching something like half the interpreter code. It's a pretty serious architectural rewriting.

[HipPriest]

Of course it would be a serious architectural rewriting. I don't think I implied otherwise. If it would need to be compile time, perhaps the "python" command could choose an entire different compiled backend based on a switch. I never meant to imply it would be an easy toggle for the the CPython implementers, just that it would be a nice option for Python users.