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Python Python Basics (2015) Python for Beginners The Python Shell

Is there an object of which print() is a method/member of?

In Python, everything is an object. Every object has methods and attributes. Is there some underlying/implied object that functions like print() is a method/member of? Can a function/method exist independently of an object?

1 Answer

Chris Freeman
MOD
Chris Freeman
Treehouse Moderator 68,441 Points

Hi Adiv,

In Python, everything is an object.

Correct!

Every object has methods and attributes.

Correct!

Is there some underlying/implied object that functions like print() is a method/member of?

Yes. print() is one of the built-in functions. If you run type(print), you'll see <class 'builtin_function_or_method'>

Can a function/method exist independently of an object?

No. When you create a function it is part of the current module. In many cases, the module is the text file containing the function. A method, is by definition, bound to an object be it a class or class instance.

Does that cover it? Post back for more details, if needed.

Thank you for your great answer!

So the builtin_function_or_method class is instantiated every time a Python script is run? Could print() be invoked with reference to this class? For example, builtin_function_or_method.print("My string") ? Not that I would want to do that of course! LOL Thanks again.

Chris Freeman
Chris Freeman
Treehouse Moderator 68,441 Points
>>> __builtins__.print("Yes, you can!!")
Yes, you can!!