Yes my reaction was negative but not to Python. Rather to the language strive against C++ and Java that were so obvious in the article. I find that an article has better impact when it tell why something was used instead of vague statement about another language causing more problems than it solved.
If you noticed I said Python is on even par with learning as Java (I have had to learn both so I am somewhat qualified to offer my opinion).
Non-programmers can't use Python. I have yet to see a non-programmer write programs beyond printing hello to the screen. The idea of non programmers using the language is a pipe dream.