If I were cornered and asked to recommend a 'starter' razor I would probably break it down into six categories;
Vintage
1) < $15
2) $16-$50
3) $51+
Modern/New
4) < $15
5) $16-$50
6) $51+
The above because some people love vintage, some dislike it and find it 'yucky' to buy a used razor and some people don't care either way. Another reason for the categories is price sensitivity. There are people that want to get something inexpensive but good - all the way to people that want 'the best current razor there is, money no object'.
So I think context is also important when providing a razor recommendation.
(There are of course more dimensions such as weight, handle length, etc, etc - but these two would be a good start)
My own recommendations for the categories above would be something like;
1) GEM Featherweight (SE blades are really not scary or hard to use and this is a very easy to use razor)
2) Schick Krona (amazingly mild yet efficient razor. I think it would make a great intro-razor)
3) If you're willing to spend big money right off the bat on a vintage razor I'd say go for a higher-end vintage Gillette
4) Wilkinson Sword Classic
5) EJ DE89 (it was my first razor so a bit biased maybe but I really rather like it. Also almost fool proof)
6) Pils 101NE (big, great quality, will last you a life time, mild enough to not scare you away and will give you a close shave)
All the above is of course super subjective.
Curious to see what other people would recommend into those six slots.