What is the difference between a functor and a monad in Python?

What is the difference between a functor and a monad in Python?

A functor is a type that can be mapped over, while a monad is a type that can be chained together. In Python, functors can be implemented using classes with a map method, and monads can be implemented using classes with bind or flat_map methods.

Can you give me an example of a functor in Python?

Sure! Here's a simple example of a functor in Python:

class Functor:
    def __init__(self, value):
        self.value = value

    def map(self, func):
        return Functor(func(self.value))

f = Functor(5)
result = f.map(lambda x: x * 2)
print(result.value)  # Output: 10

What about a monad? Can you show me an example?

Absolutely! Here's a basic example of a monad in Python:

class Monad:
    def __init__(self, value):
        self.value = value

    def bind(self, func):
        return func(self.value)

m = Monad(5)
result = m.bind(lambda x: Monad(x * 2))
print(result.value)  # Output: 10

How do functors and monads relate to each other?

Functors and monads are both abstractions that allow for functional programming patterns. Every monad is a functor, but not every functor is a monad. Monads provide additional structure that allows for chaining operations.