What makes Javascript the preferred language for MongoDB and CouchDB over alternatives like Java and C++?

As I delve into the realm of JavaScript, my initial understanding has been that it serves as a client-side language, capturing events and adding dynamism to web pages.

However, during my exploration of comparisons between MongoDB and CouchDB, I was intrigued to discover that both databases utilize JS. This revelation sparked questions in my mind regarding the rationale behind choosing JS over more traditional languages. I find myself pondering on the role of JS and the advantages it offers compared to other programming languages.

Update

I am not solely focusing on the supported languages/drivers for these two DBs. The comparison highlights

Both CouchDB and MongoDB heavily rely on Javascript. CouchDB extensively utilizes Javascript in view creation...MongoDB also enables execution of custom javascript functions server-side and uses Javascript for map/reduce operations.

My lingering confusion revolves around the use of JS for backend tasks. Why is it favored for building views in CouchDB or handling map/reduce operations? Why weren't C/C++ or Java chosen instead? What exactly are the benefits of leveraging JS for such backend functionalities?

Answer

In conclusion, responses from the Software Engineering Stack Exchange shed light on how MongoDB and other NoSQL databases employ SpiderMonkey for executing server-side JS functions.

javajavascriptc++mongodbcouchdb

Answer №1

One possible reason is that developers choose this language.

  • It offers dynamic functionality.
  • Functions can be easily passed around.
  • There are open and embeddable implementations available.
  • It has widespread usage.
  • It uses a JSON-like data model.

In my opinion, there aren't many great options for "live" evaluation besides Lua, Scheme-y languages, and JavaScript when it comes to C programs.

If the code had been written in Java, a default scripting layer would have been included.

Answer №2

One common issue with many programming languages is the lack of sandboxing, which can lead to dangerous commands like 'rm -rf /' being executed in a map function. However, Javascript stands out due to its built-in sandboxing capabilities, stemming from its origins in web browsers. In CouchDB, Javascript serves as the default view server language, but other bindings exist for languages such as Ruby and Python. Additionally, there is a native Erlang option available.

While using the same language for both front-end and back-end development can offer elegance, CouchDB doesn't limit users to a particular language choice. Instead, it comes equipped with a reliable Javascript-based view engine.

For more information on the view server protocol and alternative implementations, visit:

Answer №3

When it comes to CouchDB, JavaScript plays a crucial role in building views and MapReduce functions. Despite the core of CouchDB being written in Erlang, JavaScript is utilized for scenarios where performance is less critical. Surprisingly, you can even develop your views using Erlang for slightly better performance. So why exactly did they opt for JavaScript?

  1. One major reason is that CouchDB utilizes JSON as its data exchange format. JSON, known for being lightweight, quick, and easily readable, is closely tied to JavaScript. It's clear that when working with JSON, JavaScript reigns supreme.

  2. Another driving factor is the widespread use of JavaScript in the realm of web programming, which happens to be the primary target audience for CouchDB. Regardless of whether you code in Ruby, Python, PHP, or Java, some understanding of JavaScript is essential for web development.

  3. Furthermore, when examining the view code, you'll find similarities to languages like Java or C++. The syntax draws from C, and OOP or interfaces are not necessary for creating views.

Answer №4

Why would someone downvote you for asking such a good question?

To clarify, MongoDB supports multiple languages, including JavaScript along with:

  • C
  • C++
  • Erlang
  • Haskell
  • Java
  • .NET (C# F#, PowerShell, etc)
  • Perl
  • PHP
  • Python
  • Ruby
  • Scala

There are even more languages supported as well.

You can check out the full list and see which clients are available by visiting:

http://www.mongodb.org/display/DOCS/Drivers

I hope this information clarifies your original query.

Answer №5

Check out this insightful analysis on the widespread embrace of JavaScript.

Answer №6

Utilizing a combination of C/C++, MongoDB uses the JSON model to store its database entries directly from JavaScript.

Answer №7

Maybe the real question should be, "Why wouldn't it?"

Javascript is a versatile and robust language.

One of the key reasons for choosing Javascript is its widespread familiarity among developers. When creating a system, simplicity and accessibility are crucial for success. Many web-related projects, like MongoDb, rely on Javascript because it aligns with what most web developers already know. Why complicate things by using languages like C++ or Java when Javascript can do the job just as well?

For example, Facebook runs on PHP (which is then converted to C++) not necessarily because it's the best technical option, but because:

  • it's user-friendly
  • it's widely known
  • it speeds up development processes

These decisions are often commercially driven.

(Feel free to downvote me for responding to your question with another question.)

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