Should you learn C to "learn how the computer works"?

Learning C to understand how computers work is a common suggestion, but it's important to clarify that C does not directly represent how computers function. While C operates within an abstract machine, it offers insights into low-level programming and the relationship between software and hardware. The history of C's development, from its origins at Bell Labs to standardization efforts, highlights its role in creating portable code across diverse systems. Understanding the C abstract machine is crucial for writing portable code, as it guides compilers in translating source code into machine-specific instructions. Learning C can provide a deeper understanding of computing concepts and expose programmers to hardware-related details not typically encountered in higher-level languages. However, it's essential to recognize that C is an abstraction of hardware and not a direct representation of how computers work. By learning C, individuals can gain valuable insights into the intricacies of programming and the underlying mechanisms of computer systems.