WIP

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