Is it beneficial for a programmer to learn how to build a compiler?

Question

There is a lot of variety when it comes to the different types of programmers. In general, is beneficial for a programmer to learn how to build a compiler? In what cases would

Answer 1

Understanding the process of compilation is a general approach to understanding how the computer works, and therefore provides a broad scope of understanding. Many modern programmers work in complex environments that require little of this understanding, at least on basic levels. An example is java, which hides the linking step of compilation from the developer.

Knowledge is knowledge, it is almost always useful. In my case, I found understanding compilation process exceptionally usefull when doing performance enhancement, which is my job. (I work in a super low latency environment)

If you do all your work in PHP mySql that is great. Just remember that all technologies get outdated, and you will need to understand the next great thing. Having "general knowledge" like understanding compilation provides a conceptional buffer between you and those shmucks who can't adapt.

Learn how to learn.