Javascript as a general purpose language?

Question

In a weekend geek seminar I attended, several instructors extolled the virtues of Javascript. I've used Javascript to some extent, but their enthusiasm caused me to want to step a little closer.

I've learned bits-and-pieces about Rhino & SpiderMonkey. I know about server-side scripting & the restrictions placed on local file access (and the reasons why).

I wondered if Javascript would ever take it's place alongside perl and python as a general purpose language? Not b/c there is any lacking in the languages that exist, but simply for those skilled in its use to broaden the scope of their reach.

I'm not so interested in a prediction of the future as I am about the current possibilities, the barriers in the way, and what's on the near-term table that might make this more of a reality.

Are some of you perhaps using the language in such way now? Shell scripting, local apps, etc.?

If so, how are you working around the issues of local file access and other things, such as databases?

Answer 1

Server-side Javascript doesn't have the restrictions on file access that client-side Javascript has.

Look at the node.js project for some inspiration.