[thelist] what is JavaScript?

--- Arthur Noel <arthur@arthurnoel.com> wrote:
> Anyone have thoughts on useful similes to explain JavaScript; what it
> is/does etc? I'm trying to write a short guide for the average user
> and am
> running into trouble - I'm not sure how much to dumb down.
> 
> Also, what do you guys think about the security issues involved -
> scare-mongering or something people should be educated about?

This is what I typically write/say when asked:

JavaScript allows direct interactivity between the Web site and the
visitor.  [HTML merely defines the structure and presentation of a
page/site.]  JavaScript also allows customization of a site, based on
the user's environment (hardware, software, operating system, etc.).

While JavaScript does give LIMITED access to a visitor's PC, thoughtful
site construction reduces the likelihood of security "exploits" to a
negligible level - and while disabling JavaScript reduces that
likelihood to nil, it also removes access to the interactivity that can
so enhance the user experience.




=====
Ben Henick              |  "In the long run, men hit only
Web Author At-Large     |  what they aim at.  Therefore,
www.io.com/persist1/    |  though they should fail
persist1@io.com         |  immediately, they had better aim
persist1_pdx@yahoo.com  |  high."  --Henry David Thoreau

__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Send instant messages with Yahoo! Messenger.
http://im.yahoo.com/