Definition of "calculus"
a : a method of computation or calculation in a special notation (as
of logic or symbolic logic)
b : the mathematical methods comprising differential and integral
calculus —often used with the
So a "calculus" means more than differentiation and integration it can
also mean a system of symbols that can be "mechanistically" modified;
algorithmically modified if you prefer.
Lambda abstraction was probably chosen in case someone found better
abstractions; e.g. epsilon, delta, gamma, beta, alpha, ... :)
Or Joel Spolsky's "leaky abstractions". :D
On Sun, Aug 21, 2011 at 9:37 AM, C K Kashyap
Hi, Can someone please tell me what is the root of the name lambda calculus? Is it just because of the symbol lambda that is used? Why not alpha or beta calculus? Regards, Kashyap _______________________________________________ Haskell-Cafe mailing list Haskell-Cafe@haskell.org http://www.haskell.org/mailman/listinfo/haskell-cafe
-- -- Regards, KC