Explore an approach to handling reference types in generic programming through this comprehensive CppNow conference talk. Delve into the challenges of using reference and proxy types with generic data structures, examining real-world cases where higher-level generic code seemingly requires their use. Investigate the expected semantics in such scenarios and discover how to develop future data structures that work with both Regular objects and reference/proxy types without compromising existing semantics. Participate in discussions on topics including Regular types, Elements of Programming, generic data structure requirements, parameter passing, and optimization techniques. Gain insights from Matt Calabrese, a software engineer at Google and Boost Steering Committee member, as he presents controversial yet constructive ideas for library developers working with C++.