Explaining functional programming to object-oriented programmers and less technical people

Question

What are some good examples that I can use to explain functional programming?

The audience would be people with little programming experience, or people who only have ob

Answer 1

I don't think you can, frankly. Functional programming (like 'good' OO programming, vs. 'procedural with classes') requires a mental model shift. You just can't understand it as a procedural coder without actually taking the time and working through using it.

If you really want someone to understand functional programming, get them a copy of the Little Schemer or some other equivalent book, and have them sit down and work through the exercises. Nothing else will help them build the necessary mental model.