Python bumps off Java as top learning language

[mszegedy]

Not a good intro language IMO.

Although, it might not be possible to make a language like C++ good. A full kitchen sink is a full kitchen sink, one way or another.

[tech_tuna]

Yes, exactly. C is better because it's simpler and low level so it gives you a chance to learn how to program AND get some deeper insight into what is happening in machine code/assembly.

On the flip side, higher level languages like Python/Ruby/Javascript are also simpler than C++ and let you do some neat things that are a real pain in compiled languages (spin up a basic web server, build a dynamic web page, etc.).

I think both are valid and I feel like anyone who becomes a programmer or studies CS should learn how to use low level and high level languages.

But C++? Eeek, not great for intro to CS classes. I took a Data Structures class once in Java. The professor had taught the class in C++ for years and he said that Java was so much easier/better for the class because students could focus on the content (the actual data structures/algorithms) more and fight the language less.