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Python's super() with Multiple Inheritance
In Python, multiple inheritance involves a class inheriting from multiple parent classes. When using the super() function in such scenarios, it becomes crucial to understand its behavior.
super() in Multiple Inheritance
super() primarily serves two purposes:
In the given code snippet:
class First(object): def __init__(self): print("first") class Second(object): def __init__(self): print("second") class Third(First, Second): def __init__(self): super(Third, self).__init__() print("that's it")
When a Third object is instantiated, the following happens:
Ambiguous MROs
However, when the inheritance chain becomes more complex, there can be ambiguity in determining the MRO. This occurs when a child class inherits from multiple classes that inherit from the same base class. Python raises an error in such cases.
For example, consider the following code:
class First(object): def __init__(self): print("first") class Second(First): def __init__(self): print("second") class Third(First): def __init__(self): print("third")
When attempting to create a class that inherits from both Second and Third, Python raises a TypeError due to an ambiguous MRO. The order of the parent classes in the inheritance list is significant and should be consistent across the codebase.
Conclusion
Python's super() function is a powerful tool for managing multiple inheritance. By understanding its behavior, you can effectively resolve method conflicts and maintain a clear class hierarchy.
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