Why doesn't Java support multiple inheritance directly?

Java doesn't support multiple inheritance directly to avoid complexity and conflicts that can arise from it. When a class inherits from multiple classes, there is a potential for ambiguity regarding which inherited method or property to use if the same method or property exists in more than one superclass. This situation is often referred to as the "diamond problem."

By eliminating direct multiple inheritance, Java simplifies the inheritance model, making it easier to understand and maintain. Instead, Java allows a class to implement multiple interfaces, which provides a way to achieve multiple inheritance of type without the associated complexities of state management and method resolution that come with inheriting from multiple classes. This strategy maintains the clarity and integrity of the Java language design, promoting cleaner code structures and reducing the likelihood of errors.

The other options touch on aspects of Java’s design philosophy, but they do not capture the essential reason related to avoiding complexity and conflicts as decisively as the choice regarding complexity does.