c# - Overriding Extension Methods

Question

I've been thinking about using extension methods as a replacement for an abstract base class. The extension methods can provide default functionality, and can be 'overridden' by putting a method of the same signature in a derived class.

Any reason I shouldn't do this?

Also, if I have two extension methods with the same signature, which one is used? Is there a way of establishing priority?

Answer 1

In general, you shouldn't provide "base" functionality through extension methods. They should only be used to "extend" class functionality. If you have access to the base class code, and the functionality you're trying to implement is logically part of the inheritance heirarchy, then you should put it in the abstract class.

My point is, just because you can doesn't mean you should. It's often best just to stick with good old fashioned OOP and use the newer language features when plain old OO programming falls short of providing you a reasonable solution.