Advanced Generalization

Abstract

In this chapter, we elaborate on the notions of generalization and specialization, already introduced in earlier chapters. First, we explain that a class may not have multiple specializations, but it can have multiple generalizations. We describe how classes participating in multiple generalizations inherit features via all of them simultaneously, and how the concept of dominant generalization plays a major role in this mechanism. We also describe some scenarios where classes may be deemed illegal as a consequence of their place in a specialization structure, especially due to feature name clashes.