Hello and question: Javascript, Perl or PHP?

Hi all. Intellectually-challenged noob here (although I did do a html webpage a few years ago). I'm currently starting work on a new website, a collection of links somewhat similar to dmoz. I have a lot of time to spend on it. Anyway I'm okay with HTML/XHTML and CSS, considering the natural limitations of my single functioning brain cell, and I'm ready to move on to a dynamic language where I can display an even lower degree of competence.

I want a lot of interactive functionality: membership, forms that will automatically convert to a HTML-tagged entry on the website, pop-up windows on mouseover, average rating system (such as Amazon has).

So in 25 words or less (so I don't have an ADD attack before finishing): learn Javascript, Perl or PHP? Or something else? My host is Lunarpages and they seem to have support for a wide range of choices.

I'll be using MySQL, btw.

hmm php with your mysql...

"learn javascrip" hmm yes and no. u dont need to learn cover to cover the javascript books but id certainly advise learing some basics. (popups etc arnt hard to do)

why not learn by disecting some scripts on hotscripts.com?

Hello and welcome, masonbarge

Sounds like somebody needs to work on their self-confidence...I`m sure you`ll do fine

no to javascript, learn php, you can do anything javascript can do with php

while this may sound a little crude, its the turth.
Thats crap advice. Wheras you can do some things with php, like, for instance check form boxes, dynamic content is much better whith the power of javascript. Although its not adivsed for validating forms as a sole means, (as it can be turned off allowing bad data) it serverly reduces bandwith, as the checking is done real time, on the cliant side. It does not need to process the form, load any information etc etc. You can litterally do anything with javascript. ecampsite, in your advice, you sound a fool. i see what you are trying to say but your misguided in your opinien.

Take the menus avove (the ones with the arrow which drop down) Content which is slick moving like tha cant be done with just php.

Besides, PHP is a server side technology, wheras JAVASCRIPT is a client side one. Learn this differance ecampsite!

Back on topic, Ivy's point is entirly correct. squirrels do like cheese. I mean! hehehe go for it. nothing like a jump in the deep end to get you going! besides, you cn allways climb out...

Welcome to the forums.

I would also say get a directory script, its what alot of ppl do these days (lazy way of doing link exchanges).

Lol, yeah, I say that all the time...you and your cheese, ben!

live for edam cheese!

Well, no votes for PERL, at least that gives me a start.

And just in case anyone wants to see the cute pic of Diane Kruger in my avatar, just click on the thumbnail:

I also agree with sypher,
I can advise you to use esyndicat directory script for your needs.