assert semantic change proposal

[bachmeier via Digitalmars-d]

> But the 'newly proposed one' is the definition that I have been 
> using all
> along.

+1. Until this came up, I didn't know another definition existed.

> The 'regular' definition of assert that you claim is what I see 
> as
> the redefinition - it is a definition based on the particular
> implementation of assert in other languages, not on the 
> conceptual idea of
> assert as I understand it (and as it appears to be intended in 
> D).

In my view, it's also a redefinition of -release. My view is 
influenced by Common Lisp. If you want speed, you test your 
program, and then when you feel comfortable, set the optimization 
levels to get as much speed as possible. If you want safety and 
debugging, set the optimization levels accordingly. I was always 
under the impression that -release was a statement to the 
compiler that "I've tested the program, make it run as fast as 
possible, and let me worry about any remaining bugs."