Monkey Patching
Monkey patching is a programming technique where existing code is dynamically modified at runtime, typically by adding, replacing, or overriding methods, functions, or attributes in classes or modules. It allows developers to alter the behavior of software without changing its original source code, often used for debugging, testing, or extending functionality in dynamic languages like Python, Ruby, or JavaScript. This approach can be powerful but is generally considered risky as it can lead to unexpected side effects and maintenance challenges.
Developers should use monkey patching primarily in scenarios like unit testing, where they need to mock or stub dependencies to isolate code behavior without modifying production code. It's also useful for applying quick fixes or feature extensions in legacy systems where direct source changes are impractical, or for prototyping changes in dynamic environments. However, it should be employed cautiously due to its potential to introduce bugs and make code harder to understand and maintain.