title: Are messages in Ruby an implementation detail or fundamental
body: <p>My understanding is that method calls on a Ruby object are sending messages to the object (which could be done manually using the <code>send</code> method).</p>
  
  <p>When I use Python, I don't think about how a method/function call is processed; if it's defined or available then it executes, otherwise I get an error.  </p>
  
  <p>1) Is Ruby's use of messages unique (i.e. is Python also using messages under the hood)?</p>
  
  <p>2) Is Ruby's use of messages just an implementation detail or is it fundamental to how you're supposed to use Ruby (i.e. will I be missing out on something if I ignore it and go on calling my methods like in Python)?</p>