[deltaonefour]

>I don't think we'll ever be able to calculate program designs, like having a computer design the theoretically optimal {sorting algorithm, hashmap, SQL engine} for a given processor, for a particular performance criterion (average-case and worst-case performance)

Not talking about efficiency here. The theoretical optimal for time complexity is already done. We know how to calculate a quantitative measure for average case and worst case performance. For many problems we know the solution for how to optimize for both of the above cases.

When I refer to design I refer to the aspect of computer science we do not have theory for. How do you organize your logic? What is optimal organization of code such that it is optimal and future proof? This area I believe can be formally defined.