StarCyst t1_iy0ho6j wrote
Reply to comment by drewcomputer in TIL The worlds first computer virus was developed by Jon Von Neumann in 1949. It served as proof that computer programs are capable of replicating themselves by s24569
Yes, I've done it; I wrote a whole online messaging system while 15 miles from the nearest computer.
still only theoretical.
drewcomputer t1_iy0iboq wrote
Theoretical CS isn’t like, speculating what’s possible in the sci fi future. It‘s making rigorous mathematical proofs about algorithms.
And this whole thread was about whether OP read the article lol. The article plainly says what OP said, and computer science textbooks agree. If you want to have a philosophical debate about if a program has to run on silicon in order to exist, go ahead, but know that the experts decided that one long ago and side with OP.
Sigg3net t1_iy0o079 wrote
You're misidentifying theoretical and speculative. You can have theoretical proof of something. Cf. Einstein's vindication that light bends.
StarCyst t1_iy0pmcc wrote
Irrelevant distinction, it wasn't 'developed' as in actually programmed into the computer by him.
the concept was developed, but not the actual virus.
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