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Python Build a Social Network with Flask Broadcasting Post Form and View

Daniel King
Daniel King
2,317 Points
Posted by Daniel King
Daniel King
2,317 Points

Purpose of the Flask g object?

Hi all,

I'm having trouble understanding what the purpose is of the Flask g object. In the before_request() function, we assign g.user = current_user. Then, in the post() view, we use the value of g.user in the expression g.user._get_current_object(). My question is, why did we do that instead of just saying current_user._get_current_object()? Similarly, why did we assign g.db = models.DATABASE? Why not just use models.DATABASE throughout?

Any insight as to the purpose of the g object would be appreciated!

1 Answer

Keith Whatling
Keith Whatling
17,752 Points
Keith Whatling
Keith Whatling
17,752 Points

The g object makes things global... ok so what does that mean, Flask usually runs out of a few .py files, the g object allows you to make things global across your flask app, as in if you have g.ice_cream = 'vanilla' in one file, you can use g.ice_cream in other locations.

It has changed as of flask 0.10. if you look at the social network lesson and i think the second lot of vid's then Kenneth covers it.

Daniel King
Daniel King
2,317 Points
Daniel King
Daniel King
2,317 Points

Thanks for that!