How Can I Efficiently Implement Both Const and Non-Const Getters in C ?

Overcoming the Const Conundrum for Duplicate Getters

The dilemma arises when implementing getters in classes with both const and non-const versions. Compiling errors hinder the implementation of either method using the other. Additionally, casting is necessary to call the const version from the non-const one.

An Elegant Solution

Effective C proposes an unconventional yet effective solution: implement the non-const version by casting away the const from the const version. While not aesthetically pleasing, this approach guarantees safety since the calling function is non-const. Thus, casting away the const from the const object is permissible.

Example:

class Foo
{
public:
    const int& get() const
    {
        // Non-trivial work
        return foo;
    }

    int& get()
    {
        return const_cast<int&>(const_cast<const Foo*>(this)->get());
    }
};

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