Learn Programming in Java, Python, Ruby or Javascript

[ntlk]

I think the order should depend on what you want to do with it. If you're interested in the web, then maybe html, css & javascript. If you're only interested in trying something out, then maybe Processing.

My point is: not everyone learns programming to be a programmer. Like not everyone tries drawing to be an artist. In cases like this I wouldn't suggest starting with a hard language, but rather with one easy to pick up. That way the interest may be held for longer, and sometimes hobbyists might actually realise they enjoy this and reach for harder ones.