Practical theory and theory-based practice

Abstract

In computer science, the relationship between theory and practice seems to be uneasy in comparison to other sciences, such as, e.g., chemistry or electrical engineering. This may be partly created by the strong influence of mathematicians (in theoretical computer science) who don't care much about real systems, but also by the obvious success of ingenious programmers and infamous hackers who don't care much about theory. It may indicate that computer science is ‘very special’, but it is more likely just a sign of its immaturity.