Multiple Inheritance vs. Multiple Interfaces in Java: Why the Difference?

Multiple Inheritance vs. Multiple Interfaces in Java

Java prohibits multiple inheritance, which allows a subclass to inherit from multiple parent classes. However, it permits the implementation of multiple interfaces, which are contracts that define method signatures but not implementations.

Why is Multiple Inheritance Forbidden in Java?

Multiple inheritance poses a problem when two parent classes provide different implementations for the same method. The subclass cannot resolve which implementation to inherit, leading to ambiguity.

Why is Multiple Interface Implementation Allowed?

In contrast to classes, interfaces specify only the behavior of a class without defining its implementation details. This resolves the ambiguity issue associated with multiple inheritance. By implementing multiple interfaces, a class can inherit method signatures and implement them as per its own requirements.

This distinction allows Java to enforce strong encapsulation and prevent conflicts arising from multiple inheritance. By separating method declarations from implementations, interfaces provide a clean and flexible mechanism for defining common functionality across unrelated classes.

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