What kind of backend do I need to do this?

So I'd like to develop a site based on these mockups:

URL

... but I don't even know
1) IF this possible and
2) HOW this is possible.

What sort of backend would be required to make something like this into an actual functioning website? Some sort of database I presume? an elaborate CGI script? PHP? (Is it pretty apparent by now that I don't know what I'm talking about?)

Essential features:
o reader/user driven content
o content which is automatically categorized and published to the site via online forms
o feedback/rating enabled

Would this be something so unbelievably huge to maintain, that no mere mortal (ie with little web dev background) could do it?

Thanks on the advance word... I honestly have no idea what I'm getting into. Just thought it would be a fun idea to see into fruition.

Yes, you'll need a scripting language such as PHP, ASP, JSP, Perl, etc. You'll also need a database such as MySQL, PostgreSQL, MSSQL, etc.

Since you have no idea what you're doing (your words ), I'd start with some PHP and MySQL tutorials. They would be more than enough to handle your needs at this point.

You're not going to be able to do this with plain HTML and I doubt there's a pre-made script out there for this (then what good would your project be, obviously). So, start with the basics and work your way up.

---John Holmes...

What you want is probably a content management system though you may be thinking of a wiki.