Learning Haskell with a view to learning Scala

Question

I\'ve read a few questions such as Scala vs Haskell discussing the merits of both languages or which to learn, but I already know that I\'d like to learn Scala. I was a Java pro

Answer 1

I wouldn't do that. If you go straight to Scala (your final aim) you save time. You'll learn functional programming anyway, but as Scala is "less pure" you'll be able to start writing programs in Scala usign some Java-like constructs, which will make the transition simpler.

Even if you go into Haskell, your first programs will be of less "functional quality" than later ones, as only practice improves that. Starting Scala your first programs will be of "less quality" as your first programs in Java or PHP were, but with practice you'll improve. Spending time in unrelated tasks hoping they MAY help, it can result in you wasting that time.

Focus on your aim. If that's Scala, go for it.

UPDATE: I believe this may be relevant to the question. It raises a point on productivity (deliver software) vs seeking "pure knowledge".