Java assert nasty side-effect - compiler bug?

I don't know about "nasty". Can you give a real example of some code where this would bite you? Your example looks very contrived.

Assertions can be enabled and disabled at runtime. If you execute your code with the -ea-switch (for enable assertions) the assert should work.

I cant really gove you an answer,but what I can give you is a way to a solution, that is you have to find the anglde that you relate to or peaks your interest. A good paper is one that people get drawn into because it reaches them ln some way.As for me WW11 to me, I think of the holocaust and the effect it had on the survivors, their families and those who stood by and did nothing until it was too late.