Exploring Go's Unique Approach to Object-Oriented Programming
Tags: go, programming
Published: 2023-06-15 21:53:09

Unlike other languages, when it comes to the concept of object oriented programming(OOP), Golang takes a unique yet intuitive approach to modelling objects that contain data and methods. Rather than following concepts such as Encapsulation, Inheritance, and Polymorphism, The Go language focuses on composition, interfaces, and naming convention. In this article we would see how these principles contribute to the flexibility, maintainability and extensibility of Object Oriented Programming in the Go language.

**Composition: Building Blocks Of Functionality**
In Go, composition is favored over inheritance when it comes to creating complex functionality. Composition allows developers to combine smaller types to form more specialized and comprehensive ones. By using fields or struct embedding, Go promotes code reuse and modularity. Take a look at this example:

```
type Person struct {
    Name string
    Age  int
}

type Employee struct {
    Person
    EmployeeID string
}

```
In the above code snippet, the `Employee` type includes a `Person` type as a field. This composition enables an `Employee` object to inherit the `Name` and `Age` fields from the `Person` object. With composition, Go encourages the creation of flexible and customizable types by combining smaller building blocks.

**Interfaces: Contracts for Behavior**
Go relies on interfaces to achieve polymorphism and code flexibility. Instead of explicit class inheritance, Go uses interfaces to define contracts for behavior. Any type that implements the methods defined in an interface is said to implicitly satisfy that interface. This allows different types to be used interchangeably as long as they adhere to the specified interface. Look at this:

```
type Shape interface {
    Area() float64
    Perimeter() float64
}

type Circle struct {
    Radius float64
}

func (c Circle) Area() float64 {
    return math.Pi * c.Radius * c.Radius
}

func (c Circle) Perimeter() float64 {
    return 2 * math.Pi * c.Radius
}

```
In this example, the `Shape` interface defines the behavior of any shape by specifying the `Area()` and `Perimeter()` methods. The `Circle` struct satisfies the `Shape` interface by implementing these methods. By utilizing interfaces, Go enables polymorphism, allowing different types to be treated uniformly based on shared behaviors rather than hierarchical relationships.

**Naming Conventions: Clarity and Intent**
Naming conventions play a crucial role in code readability and conveying intent. Unlike some other languages where naming conventions are merely recommendations, Go enforces specific patterns to ensure consistent and understandable code. Adhering to these conventions aids in comprehending the purpose and functionality of code components. Here are a few common naming conventions it uses:

- Capitalizing initial letters for exported (public) identifiers
- Using mixedCase or camelCase for local (private) identifiers
- Choosing concise and descriptive names for variables, functions, and types

By following these naming conventions, Go code becomes more self-explanatory, promoting collaboration among developers.

**Conclusion:**
Go's approach to object-oriented programming sets it apart from traditional languages that heavily rely on encapsulation, inheritance, and polymorphism. By embracing composition, interfaces, and strict naming conventions, Go promotes code reusability, modularity, and extensibility. Through the examples and explanations provided, you now have a solid understanding of Go's unique programming paradigm. By applying these principles, you can write clean, flexible, and maintainable Go code while embracing the simplicity and efficiency that the language offers.