1.2 Is Python a Scripting Language?

Python is a general purpose programming language that is often applied in scripting roles. It is commonly defined as an object-oriented scripting language—a definition that blends support for OOP with an overall orientation toward scripting roles. In fact, people often use the word "script" instead of "program" to describe a Python code file. In this book, the terms "script" and "program" are used interchangeably, with a slight preference for "script" to describe a simpler top-level file and "program" to refer to a more sophisticated multifile application.

Because the term "scripting" has so many different meanings to different observers, some would prefer that it not be applied to Python at all. In fact, people tend to think of three very different definitions when they hear Python labeled a "scripting" language, some of which are more useful than others:

Shell tools

Tools for coding operating system-oriented scripts. Such programs are often launched from console command-lines, and perform tasks such as processing text files and launching other programs. Python programs can serve such roles, but this is just one of dozens of common Python application domains. It is not just a better shell script language.

Control language

A "glue" layer used to control and direct (i.e., script) other application components. Python programs are indeed often deployed in the context of a larger application. For instance, to test hardware devices, Python programs may call out to components that give low-level access to a device. Similarly, programs may run bits of Python code at strategic points, to support end-user product customization, without having to ship and recompile the entire system's source code. Python's simplicity makes it a naturally flexible control tool. Technically, though, this is also just a common Python role; many Python programmers code standalone scripts, without ever using or knowing about any integrated components.

Ease of use

A simple language used for coding tasks quickly. This is probably the best way to think of Python as a scripting language. Python allows programs to be developed much quicker than compiled languages like C++. Its rapid development cycle fosters an exploratory, incremental mode of programming that has to be experienced to be appreciated. Don't be fooled, though—Python is not just for simple tasks. Rather, it makes tasks simple, by its ease of use and flexibility. Python has a simple feature set, but allows programs to scale up in sophistication as needed.

So, is Python a scripting language or not? It depends on whom you ask. In general, the term scripting is probably best used to describe the rapid and flexible mode of development that Python supports, rather than a particular application domain.