On Sun, 22 Aug 1999, Bruce Lane wrote:
> 2). Schools: The labels of 'geek,' 'nerd,' and other such
> epithets have been flying around our public school system for decades,
> along with a social climate that, for reasons I've still not figured
> out, seems to actively discourage curiousity, hands-on engineering
> skills, and pursuit of interests in the physical sciences.
The gay commnuity did a good job of wresting the word "queer" away for
their own self-empowering use. So in the same way it seems to me the
words "nerd" and "geek" are turning into positive labels in today's
internet-influenced society. More and more I'm seeing references to
"nerd" or "geek" being used with a positive bent. I'm doing my part by
proudly wearing my VCF "nerd" and "geek" shirts out in public a lot, and
they are well received by many. I get smiles and chuckles.
People are realizing that they need these geeks and nerds to help them
figure out why their computer isn't working, or why they can't get on the
internet, so they have attained a new status approaching reverence in
today's world. I do see some evidence of the tide turning in favor of
intellectualism, but it's still far from what it should be in a perfect
world.
> There's just no excuse for wanton destruction or waste in the name of
> spite.
Preach on, Brother Bruce!
> HOWEVER... I would not be sitting here now and typing this had
> it not been for several very wise and patient people who inspired me
> to pursue electronics as both a hobby and career. If I can, within my
> lifetime, inspire even one other person to follow a similar course,
> and to fight back against peer pressure, I'll be a happy camper.
Survival of the geek and nerd species depends on us.
Sellam Alternate e-mail: dastar_at_siconic.com
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Received on Sun Aug 22 1999 - 13:11:50 BST