Emacs vs. Eclipse vs. Vim

[Josh]

If you were a beginning programmer and willing to make an investment in 
steep learning curve for best returns down the road, which would you pick?

I know this topic has been smashed around a bit already, but 'learning 
curve' always seems to be an arguement. If you feel that one is easier 
or harder than the others to learn feel free to tell, but let's not make 
that the deciding factor. Which one will be most empowering down the 
road as a development tool?

Thanks in advance,

JR