Have you ever been called a nerd, or even a geek? Do these words bring back bad memories? Hopefully these terms might not remind you of an earlier time in those high school days and perhaps even further back to when you might have been picked on. Even though these terms have been around for a long time, it picked up in slang usage in the 1950s and continued to our modern day. Specifically, being a nerd is defined as “a foolish or contemptible person who lacks social skills or is boringly studious”. But is it really so insulting to be called a nerd anymore? I would argue that it’s actually more of a compliment in today’s culture.
In comparison, its alternate usage nowadays people use "nerd" more as a term of endearment. It’s a more of a playful insult among friends that accommodates for one another’s individual interests without actually being insulting. It’s like saying, “Hey, you’re someone who likes something a whole lot, and I acknowledge that great love you have." For example, if you really liked comic books, you’d be a comic book nerd, or if you liked books, you’d also be a book nerd. Same goes for someone who likes football or guitars, they’re all considered nerds. It’s a term that encompasses all possible forms of interests and condenses itself in a friendly and charming way.
Think about it. Everyone has a great love for something, and many of us are super proud of it and want to share it with the world. From collecting cool rocks, merchandise from a favorite band, or memorabilia from old films, anyone can be a nerd.
I asked four college students here at Western Carolina University whether or not they think being called a “nerd” or a “geek” is an insult anymore, and they all thought it wasn’t even close to being one.
“It really isn’t [an insult]. I think the reason why this is, is because of a counter-culture that’s developed over time where people are more OK with expressing themselves and what they love instead of hiding it.” Said Jake Rossum, sophomore.
“I don’t think being called a nerd is an insult anymore, because everyone is. Everyone does their own thing, really. I play video games and like music a lot, and I’m happy to call myself a nerd.” Said Courtney Rittle, sophomore.
“Technology has gotten so big, and there’s so much content out there for people to get into. My boyfriend calls me a nerd all the time, and I’m really not offended by it. I am a nerd.” Said Alli Rhios, sophomore. “I think that the world has become more open-minded since those words were considered insults, and instead appreciate more what everyone is into.”
“It’s really a good thing, to be honest. I love when my friends greet me across campus and call me a nerd, because I totally am.” Stated Bryan Phillips proudly, deciding he would show me some brand new Pokemon figurines he bought.
“I once got called a nerd by my older brother, and I freaked out. I insisted I wasn’t a nerd, but he told me that he only meant to say I had a clearly defined interest in something. Now I wouldn’t say it to someone I didn’t know, but I can call my friends nerds because they know I mean it well.” Jake Rossum added.
Of course, it depends on the context, who’s saying it, and why. Someone might actually mean it to be harmful. That being said, with the way many young adults and kids are using the word? The impact it once had has definitely softened. Instead, bands/artists like Pharrell Williams' "N.E.R.D.", Childish Gambino, Lupe Fiasco, and Frank Ocean all talk about more than just money and fame. They rap and sing about society, it's issues, love, and even sometimes games. TV shows like "Game Of Thrones" have made it cool to be a nerd. "Game Of Thrones" used to be a long-loved epic fantasy book series and is now one of the most popular shows on television.
Take the Vlogbrothers' "Nerdfighters" community, where John and Hank Green have inspired their many subscribers to be themselves and encouraged them that it's cool and important to be civically active. There's so much out there, because being nerdy about something can mean anything. There are a ridiculous amount of comic book related movies and TV shows that have premiered and are coming in the next years because it's what many "stupid nerds" want to see. In all honesty, it's a great time to be a nerd. So much content is being oriented around that demographic, because in the end anyone who likes anything is an target audience somewhere. I guarantee that you're a nerd. Everyone's a nerd, because everyone loves something, right?
This has had a major impact upon tactics when dealing with bullies. If someone were to use the word “nerd” as they were bullying someone, the one being bullied might have the self-confidence to understand that they can like whatever they want and not let it affect them. The bullied can hold their heads up high, knowing that they are being called smart in their own way and know they know a whole lot about something that others may or may not. It’s more complimentary because bullies are calling out the fact you like something so much they’re associating it with you, and if that’s your favorite TV show, video game, or anime, how is that a bad thing? If this means that you’re being studious and making good grades, it’s better off for you. Besides, who really cares what they or anyone else thinks? The only opinion you really need is your own self-validation.
However, everything is best in moderation. Even your best friend may be tired of you going on and on about how that character in your favorite book should never have died, or how screwed up the last Harry Potter movie was. Not everyone is going to like you because you like something, even if it's something they like. Whatever the case may be, it’s still okay to be a nerd. The word has lost its insulting meaning, and taken on one of self promotion and positivism. To me, being a nerd means you’re allowing yourself to be un-ironically enthusiastic about a subject, and letting your love for it to show with no holds barred. Lastly, some food for thought: why shouldn’t you allow yourself to indulge in your interests? Everyone likes something, so like whatever you want to like. You don’t have to be as passionate as others, but how you choose to go about it is all up to you. Being a nerd means being genuinely you, so be whoever you want to be. Be a nerd. Be yourself.
