This simple example demonstrates how you would have to handle lists in Java. However, it also exemplifies many of the shortcomings that the lack of generics brings.

Hey -- TL/DR -- In Java, I'm struggling to understand how to create an object instance of a generic type without first knowing the type. So, before I delve down into this, know that I'm trying to ...

Although Java 8 only shipped earlier this year, with Java 9 not due until mid-2016, a first prototype of features expected for Java 10 has appeared, including an overhaul of Java's generics.