A programming paradigm is an approach to programming a computer based on a mathematical theory or a coherent set of principles. Each paradigm supports a set of concepts that makes it the best for a certain kind of problem. For example, object-oriented programming is best for problems with a large number of related data abstractions organized in a hierarchy. Logic programming is best for transforming or navigating complex symbolic structures according to logical rules. Discrete synchronous programming is best for reactive problems, i.e., problems that consist of reactions to sequences of external events. Languages that support these three paradigms are respectively Java, Prolog, and Esterel.

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