Re: Max-specpdl-size Bug in Emacs Lisp Interpreter?

[David Kastrup]

Miles Bader <address@hidden> writes:

> Richard Stallman <address@hidden> writes:
>> The name `max-specpdl-size' can be read as implying an inherent maximum
>> one that cannot be exceeded.  By contrast, the term `limit' seems to fit
>> an adjustable, arbitrary maximum--which is what this variable is.
>
> One _could_ read those meanings into the words max and limit, but
> they hardly seem inherent; one could just as well see "limit" as
> denoting a fundamental limit which cannot be exceeded.  As far as I
> can tell it's a personal language issue with the original poster.
>
> Instead of changing the names of variables to suit the
> idiosyncrasies of individuals, it seems much better to simply make
> sure the variable documentation clearly states the meaning and
> addresses any common misconceptions.

And of course, consistency would do no harm.  I have not sampled other
limits, whether system-imposed or user-modifiable, so I can't vouch
whether one or the other name seems more in line with other usage.

-- 
David Kastrup, Kriemhildstr. 15, 44793 Bochum