The Best Programming Language for the End of the World

7 days ago

Virgil Dupras, a Canadian programmer, believes civilization will collapse in two waves: first, global supply chains will crumble, and second, the last computer will crash, leading to a slow technological blackout.
Dupras created Collapse OS, a lightweight operating system designed to run on scavenged hardware post-collapse, preserving the ability to program 8-bit microcontrollers.
He later developed Dusk OS, a version compatible with modern devices, allowing access to lost knowledge and essential functions like text editing and file access.
Forth, a low-level programming language developed in the 1950s, is central to Dupras' work due to its efficiency and direct hardware interaction, making it ideal for post-collapse scenarios.
Forth's stack-based, postfix notation and minimal memory use require programmers to think differently, emphasizing precision and resource management.
Dupras and others like Devine advocate for low-level programming to rebuild or prevent collapse, promoting a mindful, resource-constrained approach to technology.
The article explores the potential of Forth and Collapse OS to sustain critical functions in a post-collapse world, highlighting the importance of preserving low-level programming skills.

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