I'm from Missouri. Can you give me a simple reason why virtual functions (dynamic binding) make a big difference?, C++ FAQ

C++ FAQ

From Marshall Cline: Bjarne Stroustrup, Herb Sutter, Andrei Alexandrescu, Pearson / Addison-Wesley Publishers and I collaborated to create a new C++ Super-FAQ! It's a team effort, with huge contributions from each of us and with amazing support from dozens of brilliant editors. The result is "awesomer" than ever! I originally wrote/published the FAQ in 1991 and now look forward to this new phase - and to continue working with it for another 20 years!

On a personal note, I'm at Oculus VR and it is amazing - fabulous people doing fabulous work. We're hiring more fabulous people so write me if that's you!

FAQ: I'm from Missouri. Can you give me a simple reason why `virtual` functions (dynamic binding) make a big difference? ←(in the new Super-FAQ)

It's in Section: Big Picture Issues:

FAQ: Is C++ a practical language?
FAQ: Is C++ a perfect language?
FAQ: What's the big deal with OO?
FAQ: What's the big deal with generic programming?
FAQ: Is C++ better than Ada? (or Visual Basic, C, FORTRAN, Pascal, Smalltalk, or any other language?)
FAQ: Who uses C++?
FAQ: How long does it take to learn OO/C++?
FAQ: What are some features of C++ from a business perspective?
FAQ: Are virtual functions (dynamic binding) central to OO/C++?
FAQ: Why do virtual functions (dynamic binding) make a big difference? (this FAQ)
FAQ: Is C++ backward compatible with ANSI/ISO C?
FAQ: Is C++ standardized?
FAQ: Where can I get a copy of the ANSI/ISO C++ standard?
FAQ: What are some "interview questions" I could ask that would let me know if candidates really know their stuff?
FAQ: What does the FAQ mean by "such and such is evil"?
FAQ: Will I sometimes use any so-called "evil" constructs?
FAQ: Is it important to know the technical definition of "good OO"? Of "good class design"?
FAQ: What should I tell people who complain that the word "FAQ" is misleading?
FAQ: How can I help make the C++ FAQ even better??!??