Lasherism
<jargon, algorithm> (Harvard) A program that solves a standard problem
(such as the Eight Queens Puzzle or implementing the life algorithm) in a
deliberately nonstandard way. Distinguished from a crock or kluge by the fact
that the programmer did it on purpose as a mental exercise. Such constructions
are quite popular in exercises such as the Obfuscated C contest, and
occasionally in retrocomputing. Lew Lasher was a student at Harvard around 1980
who became notorious for such behaviour.
[Jargon File]
(1994-12-07)
Nearby terms:
lase « laser « laser printer « Lasherism » last call
optimisation » last-in first-out » LAT
