I don't see why people hate on JavaScript for being forgiving and easy to learn... Isnt it better that its easy to learn? And I disagree on what rynoe said about JavaScript creating slop.
IMO, JavaScript is the easiest script language and the best looking. ( For 2-D stuff. )
Because "forgiving and easy to learn" is not an engineering basis for selecting the most effective technology for a given purpose. It is a lazy or inexperienced individuals basis for selecting a technology.
"We don't estimate speeches." - CBO Director Doug Elmendorf