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Since there’s (apparently) been some discussion (I missed) @ PrintScreen about what’s the best programming language for beginners I’ll leave here my opinion:

Python

I don’t feel like copy-pasting & summarizing a bunch of text so I’ll just leave the link for a (draft) paper I co-authored which looks at the issue in some detail

A Look At Dynamic Languages

Abstract

This paper aims to present an overview of Dynamic Languages in comparison with the more traditional languages, namely Java and C++. The definition of the term “dynamic language” is given and what is commonly understood nowadays when the term is used. Then one lists the most common features of these languages and the advantages and disadvantages pointed by their proponents and opponents. Furthermore is enumerated some of the domains in which dynamic languages have been more successful and explain the reasons that justify it, as well as the domains in which there are few or no reports of success. Finally, some common examples of fanaticism sorrounding dynamic languages are given.

If you’re just interested in why Python is the best choice for a first language jump to chapter 3 - Dynamic Languages in Science and Education.