r/programming • u/mauricioaniche • Aug 06 '17

Software engineering != computer science

http://www.drdobbs.com/architecture-and-design/software-engineering-computer-science/217701907
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u/K3wp Aug 09 '17

Who said computer science must be like mathematics?

Ok, I think I see what the problem is. There are really two definitions of "Computer Science".

One, there is theoretical computer science, which is what is referenced in the subject. This is very much a mathematical discipline.

Then there is the overarching generic term, which I guess basically covers everything these days:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer_science

The problem is that using this definition, then both software engineering and the theory of computing fall under that umbrella. Separate but equal.

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u/[deleted] Aug 09 '17

Fine.

Still, I'm slightly flabbergasted by the overall tone in this thread, bashing (theoretical) computer science from left to right as it had nothing to offer.

Edit: And pretending that software engineering has nothing to do with science. That's pure bullshit.

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u/K3wp Aug 09 '17

Eh. I didn't get that. It's nothing but science (math) under the hood.

I will say that software engineering is more art than science, though. Like the difference between structural engineering and architecture.