Death to Type Classes
3 days ago
- #Haskell
- #Backpack
- #Effect Systems
- The article explores replacing Haskell type classes with the Backpack module system, resembling OCaml.
- Demonstrates defining a Functor signature and implementing it for Maybe, List, and IO.
- Discusses the setup in Cabal for managing signatures and implementations.
- Highlights the use of RebindableSyntax to control do-notation behavior.
- Introduces a simple effect system using Backpack, with examples for file operations.
- Compares the approach to traditional effect systems, noting benefits like clearer error messages.
- Mentions the potential for parallel compilation of implementations.
- Critiques the necessity of effect systems, suggesting simpler alternatives.
- Concludes with a call to explore Backpack more seriously for effect systems.