Topic: Why isn't this allowed?

[Sang-drax]

Consider this example of valid code:
 

Code: [Select]

class Test {
E[] array;

Test() {
array = (E[]) new Object[100];
}
}

What is the reason that the following isn't allowed?

Code: [Select]

array = new E[100];

It seems stupid that this isn't allowed because the original code is unelegant and will generate a warning. It is also a needed construction in a  lot of containers.
I don't see any reason why the  'new E'-notation shouldn't be allowed. It doesn't create any E objects, so E doesn't have to be a known type.

I've asked my lecturer, but she(!) doesn't have an answer (yet -- she said she'd think about it).

[salvelinus]

It is allowed for those with the rank of Java Master.

[aran]

...I had no idea you could even do function templates in java!

Ya learn something new every day.