Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) is a programming paradigm that uses "objects" to design applications and computer programs. It utilizes several techniques from previously established paradigms, including modularity, polymorphism, and encapsulation.

Core Concepts of OOP

OOP revolves around four main principles:

1. Encapsulation

Encapsulation refers to the bundling of data with the methods that operate on that data. It restricts direct access to some of an object's components, which is a means of preventing accidental interference and misuse of the data. For instance, an object in the class "Dog" may have a method called "bark," but the internal state that determines how the dog barks is kept hidden from the outside world.

2. Abstraction