From 8b3660b0ce564736bc17a32b9d513a5636ee37b0 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: =?UTF-8?q?Daniel=20Hillerstr=C3=B6m?= Date: Sat, 29 May 2021 10:40:49 +0100 Subject: [PATCH] WIP --- thesis.tex | 44 ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1 file changed, 44 insertions(+) diff --git a/thesis.tex b/thesis.tex index 4ae45dc..b67afbd 100644 --- a/thesis.tex +++ b/thesis.tex @@ -248,6 +248,50 @@ %% This creates the title page \maketitle +%% Lay summary +\begin{laysummary} + % This dissertation is about \emph{taking back control} from the + % operating system and putting it back into the hands of + % programmers. For too long programmers have been governed by + % unelected primitives + Computer programs interact with the real world, e.g. to send and + retrieve e-mails, stream videos, transferal of data from or onto + some pluggable data storage medium, and so forth. This interaction + is governed by the operating system, which is responsible for + running programs and providing them with the vocabulary to interact + with the world. + % + Programs use words from this vocabulary with a preconceived idea of + their meaning, however, importantly words are just mere syntax. The + semantics of each word is determined by the operating system + (typically such that it aligns with the intent of the program). + + This separation of syntax and semantics makes it possible for + programs and operating systems to evolve independently, because any + program can be run by any operating system whose vocabulary conforms + to the expectations of the program. It has proven to be a remarkably + successful model for building and maintaining computer programs. + + \emph{Effect handlers} localise are tiny programmable operating systems + + In this dissertation I develop the foundations for programming with + effect handlers. Specifically, I present a practical design for + programming with effect handlers as well as applications, I develop + two universal implementation strategies for effect handlers, and I + give a precise mathematical characterisation of the inherent + computational efficiency of effect handlers. + + % The meaning of words This separation of + + % modular reconfiguration of programs + + % Computer programs interact with the real world by way of \emph{system calls}\dots this interaction + % is facilitated by the operating system, which is responsible for + % % + % Effect handlers provide a modular means for structuring the internal + % code of computer programs. +\end{laysummary} + %% Acknowledgements \begin{acknowledgements} Firstly, I want to thank Sam Lindley for his guidance, advice, and