Is JavaScript Too Big to Fail?

In the world of web development, there’s one language to rule them all (pun intended): JavaScript. It is almost always everywhere, whether you're building a static website or a complex web application. It's used on the client and server sides, mobile and desktop applications, and even works for IoT and robotics development, by using tools like NodeMCU. JavaScript is the engine that powers the modern web, and its presence has grown so massive that it seems almost impossible to imagine the web without it.

But there’s an important question: Is JavaScript too big to fail? In this article, we’ll explore the rise of JavaScript, the benefits, and the potential risks of a web ecosystem that depends so heavily on a single language.

The Rise of JavaScript

JavaScript was created by Brendan Eich in 1995 while working at Netscape. It started as a simple scripting language and fast forward today, it is safe to say that it became a cornerstone of the web. With the introduction of modern syntax in ECMAScript 6 (ES6), as well as the rise of libraries, and frameworks such as Node.js, React, Angular, and many more, it evolved significantly.

There are a few factors have led to the rise of JavaSccript:

1. Cross-Platform Reach

   JavaScript runs on every browser, and now with the rise of tools like Node.js, it can also run on servers and even power mobile and desktop apps.

2. Rich Ecosystem

   If you want to build something, there is probably a library for it already. For example, NPM has millions of packages available for use.

3. Community and Support

   JavaScript has one of the largest (if not, the largest) and most active developer communities in the world. You can find an infinite amount of tutorials, forums, and resources to help you along the way.

Too Big to Fail?

I’ve been thinking about this for a long time and let’s try to break this down and see what this means.

1. Technological Lock-In

   The more we adopt JavaScript, the more unlikely that we are to switch. That’s why it creates a technical lock-in where innovation outside of it becomes limited. Any vulnerabilities within the language can have a huge impact. Currently, the web is so reliant on JavaScript that there’s almost no alternative. WebAssembly (Wasm) is on the horizon, but if we compare the pros and cons (ecosystem, learning curve, compatibility, etc.) JavaScript still has the upper hand.

2. Ecosystem Dependence

   The broader web ecosystem has evolved around JavaScript. Entire business models, educational programs, and job markets depend on it. Many companies have massive JavaScript codebases. This reliance on JavaScript creates a situation where, even if a more advanced language or tool becomes available, migrating to a different language would involve significant cost and risk.

3. Talent Shortages and Market Overload

   JavaScript is everywhere, and this creates a huge demand for developers who know how to use it. This is a good thing but at the same time, it brings some challenges with it.
   A lot of new developers are learning JavaScript because it's so common. This can flood the job market with entry-level developers, making it harder for them to find jobs (not to mention how AI tools are emerging into the market). Also, there might be a gap of skilled developers in other important tech areas, like Python or Ruby, since fewer people are learning those languages.

4. Economic Impact

   If JavaScript faces a critical failure (i.e. massive security issue) the economic impact could be profound. Entire companies, products, and services depend on it. Think of large-scale enterprises that have millions of lines of JavaScript in their codebases (frontend and backend). A major issue in the language could result in widespread outages, costing companies billions in lost revenue.

Conclusion

So, is JavaScript too big to fail? In many ways, yes. JavaScript does play an important role in web development and it is hard to replace. But this doesn’t have to be a bad thing. By using it you can create cool projects, advance in your career, and even create your own business by identifying gaps in the market.

If I were to share my humble opinion, it’s always good to diversify our tools and not depend on one technology. Also while using JS it’s always better to not rely on libraries, frameworks, etc. all the time. Before doing something always ask yourself if it’s going to enhance the user experience and if there’s a way to implement this without using JS. Often, you can find many JS-free alternatives.

Hope you found this article helpful. If you want to learn more about JavaScript, you can read my blog about How Javascript Works Behind The Scenes.

Thanks for reading!

---