I use warn so I get a warning without killing whatever is happening. If you notice, that example is being used as if it were part of a module, and the new() method returns if it's dependant method isn't loaded. This will keep this module from dying when another module/script is trying to use it, while still giving it a warning. For example, we use this technique extensively with the newest version of the Infobot. I have also used it elsewhere. I wouldn't eval a require to just die if it fails, seems redundant.

Your example would have been better if you showed it in the contect of the first bullet you explain above. :)

Cheers,
KM