Making fun of nerds and geeks is tolerated in our society because most people view this as harmless fun. David Anderegg argues that this is bad for our children and even worse for our society. If our children come to believe that their only two options are to be sexy and attractive or intelligent and ugly, there is little doubt which option they will pick - especially as their hormones kick in during their tweenage and teenage years.
This does not bode well for academic achievement or respect of elders. Even worse are the social consequences of anti-intellectualism and underachievement.
Take it from an admitted geek who desperately tried to fit in (and self-destructed in the process) and has finally embraced his inner geekdom: The toleration of making fun of nerds and geeks is not harmless fun but has serious consequences for our children and for our society. We must bear this in mind in order to oppose the oppressive influence of our consumer and hyper-sexualized culture.
For my extended review, click HERE.
Leave a comment