Ruby as Seen by Python Enthusiasts

There is a Peepcode blog entry on what the ruby guys think the python enthusiasts think of ruby and attempts to be as objective as possible. One of the major points the author is hinting at throughout the article is that ruby allows you to be more expressive with the increased flexibility and “multiple ways to do one thing.” There are many of us that want strict guidelines to adhere to and generally subscribe to this philosophy when we do not become a victim of our own poor choices. However, what I think is noted in the article, is that this comes at some cost, namely that your resulting code is less of reflection of your intent which encompass personal elements of style, elegance, readability, and simplicity. While I would be thrilled to work on a project in python, if it were left to me, my personal choice would be ruby. This is because when I am using ruby I have more conviction and believe that I am better able to express myself completely. I feel that when you constrain these ideals you inhibit creativity and inventiveness and may ultimately stifle exciting nuances and innovation.