When should I define an hash code function for my types?

Posted by devoured elysium on Stack Overflow See other posts from Stack Overflow or by devoured elysium
Published on 2010-06-13T21:16:15Z Indexed on 2010/06/13 21:22 UTC
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Is there any other reason for implementing an hash code function for my types other than allowing for good use of hash tables?

Let's say I am designing some types that I intend to use internally. I know that types are "internal" to the system, and I also know I will never use those types in hash tables. In spite of this, I decide I will have to redefine the equals() method.

Theory says I should also redefine the hash code method, but I can't see any reason why, in this case, I should do it.

Can anyone point me out any other reason?

This question can be rephrased to : in which situations should we implement a hash code method in our types.

PS : I am not asking how to implement one. I am asking when.

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