drewcomputer t1_iy0fw33 wrote
Reply to comment by StarCyst in TIL The worlds first computer virus was developed by Jon Von Neumann in 1949. It served as proof that computer programs are capable of replicating themselves by s24569
For a long time algorithms were developed and proven on paper before running on computers. That’s how Ada Lovelace made the first software, and how Alan Turing did most of his work. Von Neuman did that with viruses, and computer scientists say he made the first virus.
You can develop a sorting algorithm and mathematically prove that it works, and how fast entirely on pen and paper. That’s how a lot of computer science has always been done.
StarCyst t1_iy0ho6j wrote
Yes, I've done it; I wrote a whole online messaging system while 15 miles from the nearest computer.
still only theoretical.
drewcomputer t1_iy0iboq wrote
Theoretical CS isn’t like, speculating what’s possible in the sci fi future. It‘s making rigorous mathematical proofs about algorithms.
And this whole thread was about whether OP read the article lol. The article plainly says what OP said, and computer science textbooks agree. If you want to have a philosophical debate about if a program has to run on silicon in order to exist, go ahead, but know that the experts decided that one long ago and side with OP.
Sigg3net t1_iy0o079 wrote
You're misidentifying theoretical and speculative. You can have theoretical proof of something. Cf. Einstein's vindication that light bends.
StarCyst t1_iy0pmcc wrote
Irrelevant distinction, it wasn't 'developed' as in actually programmed into the computer by him.
the concept was developed, but not the actual virus.
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