This is in response to the “Nice guys shouldn’t finish last” article published Oct, 13, 2004. I found it arrogant, offensive, and of low morality. Furthermore its analysis of persons interested in computer science and other sciences is mere speculation and stereotype.
The author’s opinions seem likely influenced by such 80s movies as “Revenge of the Nerds”, “The Breakfast Club,” and others. These films propagated a negative and derogatory image of dedicated students, juxtaposed with “popular” students who had simply formed a social hierarchy with themselves on top.
The reality is the 1980s are over. We aren’t in high school anymore and students attend college by choice, not obligation. First of all “nerds” are not a resource. They are simply people who value intelligence, intellectual self improvement and discipline above all else. Simply put science students have difficult courses required for their majors. We cannot afford to waste weekends at parties. We have to pass tests which weed out undisciplined students.
The idea that “nerds” cannot be involved in romantic relationships, and the generalizations of sexual interests made by the “Nice” author, are also complete fallacies. Maybe the reason the author’s relationships don’t work is that she has little in common with her “knuckle draggers” and simply seeks to extract from them material items such as “jewelry”. From my experience most “nerd” males don’t want to ride the village bicycle, they know there is a design out there just for them. My girlfriend and I match up well because we spent a long time confirming similar interests and building trust.
It is unfortunate the author of “Nice” has been romantically unsuccessful, but from her slanted perspective wouldn’t she simply be a trophy to some new person who values brain instead of brawn?
In addition I personally would want nothing to do with the kind of woman the “Nice” author proclaims she is. My advice: don’t be so overtly graphic about sexual history as this will deter decent guys, and look for a match not a gold mine.
By Spencer Bartz
City College Student
