Of The Algorithms and The Atman
Algorithm is defined as a step-by-step procedure for solving a problem or accomplishing some end especially by a computer. [Merriam-Webster Dictionary]
If one knows how to come out with a best possible algorithm, the manifestation of the algorithm with the use of a programming language would ensure the end is accomplished by computer. One need not be a master in all the programming languages that are available in the market, but can come up with a decently good program in any programming language - as the semantics would remain the same, while the syntax might change.
Programming languages may have slight variations in performance, due to their internal constructs; however, the complexity of the algorithm remains the same. If the complexity of the algorithm is high even the fastest programming language cannot beat the time performance of a low complexity algorithm. Understanding of the algorithms is highly relevant in market today, as any inefficiency in algorithm will have exponentially high impact on system’s performance. Of late most of the applications are time-sensitive and any delay in results would render it meaningless.
The emphasis on algorithms is high in foundational training in computational engineering and many universities are offering online courses for many enthusiasts for bettering the programs/applications being presented into the market - unlike yesteryears, where the emphasis was more towards learning of the COTS’s APIs etc. As the internals of COTS are developed in some programming language or the other, the effectiveness of the application is dependent on the internal algorithm used for building. Hence the renewed interest and emphasis on algorithms.
Atman is defined as the innermost essence of each living individual/animal. [Merriam-Webster Dictionary]
As per oriental philosophy, anyone who understands ‘atman’ knows everything in this world - as this world is manifestation of supreme universal self. Oriental philosophy emphasized on the knowledge of atman, rather than any other aspect of learning.
It is said that Mahathma Gandhi, first read “Bhagawadh Geetha” in London which was in English, translated by Sir Charles Wilkins, who translated it from French, which in turn was translated from Persian version which was translated by Dara Shiko [Brother of Moghul Emperor Aurangzeb] from original Sanskrit. Inspired by the same, Gandhi led the movement of “non violence” and “truth”. This just goes on to say that the semantics remain the same, even if the syntax change. [It should be understood that Sanskrit, Persian, French and English are all totally different languages, script, syntax etc. are all pole apart.]
Isn’t it surprisingly similar that if one knows the essence, the entirety follows automatically?
