Nerd Etiquette

I just recently returned from an anime and gaming convention called Katsucon. Conventions are something I thoroughly enjoy on many levels and I still continue to go despite the somewhat negative connotation that comes along with them. I like dressing up in costumes, meeting talent in the afore mentioned industries, buying rare merchandise, and being around those with similar interest to myself. However, as it turns out "those with similar interest to myself" happen to be flaming nerds.

Now, in my excursions into the heartlands of all nerddom (conventions), I find that when nerds get around a large group of other nerds they really let their true colors shine. It seems this large amount of social stimulation can bring out the best and worst in people. For example, this past weekend I have witnessed a nerd climbing up a tree and wrecking property, that being inside the ritzy resort where the convention was being held, was probably worth more than he was, just for a couple laughs and some attention. On the other hand, there was a second nerd who had the social skills and awareness not to buy into this stunt and calmly and kindly reminded the first nerd that he was a guest in this resort and should be respectful of their property.

It has been my experience that this duality of nature comes from a mix of maturity levels, social skills, and a need for attention. Nerds are some of the kindest people I have ever met. This weekend while saving a table in a restaurant for a group of my friends a total stranger in head to toe rave gear said I looked sad sitting by myself and invited to her table of friends. On the flip side, many nerds will not reach out to people this way because they are trying to gain attention through other actions like being aloof.

All this may be because I myself am a nerd and it is very common for nerds to be most kind or try to gain the approval of other nerds by whatever means. Going to conventions is both a highly rewarding and highly frustrating social experiment in itself and it really gives you a look into a culture that may not be fully comprehended through the media of today.