Lodash _.identity() Method

Syntax, Parameter and Return Value

Syntax: 

_.identity(value)

Parameters:

value: The value to return.

Return Value: 

Returns the given value.

Examples 

As a Default Function in Higher-Order Operations:

• JavaScript

JavaScript

var _ = require('lodash');

var array = [1, 2, 3];

var result = _.map(array, _.identity);

console.log(result); 

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Output: 

[1, 2, 3]

Demonstrates using _.identity() as a default iteratee in a map operation.

Using in Functional Compositions:

• JavaScript

JavaScript

var double = n => n * 2;

var triple = n => n * 3;

var compose = _.flow([double, _.identity, triple]);

console.log(compose(2)); 

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Output: 

12 (2 * 2 * 3)

Shows using _.identity() as a no-operation function in a functional composition.

As a Default Callback:

function fetchData(callback) {
  callback = callback || _.identity;
  // Fetch data and return it through the callback
  callback('data');
}
fetchData(); 

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// Doesn't throw an error, silently ignores the lack of callback

An example of using _.identity() as a default callback in a function.

Filtering with Identity Function:

• JavaScript

JavaScript

var mixedArray = [0, 1, false, 2, '', 3];

var compactArray = _.filter(mixedArray, _.identity);

console.log(compactArray); 

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Output:

[1, 2, 3]

Demonstrates using _.identity() to filter truthy values from an array.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is _.identity() just a redundant wrapper around a variable?

While it might seem redundant, _.identity() is useful in functional programming paradigms, especially in places where a function is expected rather than a direct value.

Can _.identity() be used with multiple arguments?

_.identity() only returns its first argument. Any additional arguments passed to it will be ignored.

How does _.identity() benefit readability and maintainability?

Using _.identity() can make it clear to future readers of the code that a function intentionally does not transform its input, improving code readability and intent.

Conclusion

Lodash's _.identity() method is a simple yet powerful tool in functional programming, providing a straightforward way to pass values through a series of operations unaltered. It's especially useful in creating clear and concise code in scenarios that involve functional compositions, callbacks, and default operations.

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