In order to better understand ‘geek culture’ we must first know what a geek is. When compared to it’s similar counterpart the ‘nerd’ a geek is described as much more passionate when it comes to their knowledge of topics. For example, a geek would rather contribute to society in some way through their use of tech, passions for obscure pop culture, or even the now mainstream Marvel and DC story arcs. While on the other hand, ‘nerds’ would prefer to be more objective in nature with their knowledge of certain topics.
In terms of tech, we see that it is a relevant aspect within the ‘geek culture’, this tech can even just refer to the media consumed, but back when computers were new ‘geek culture’ revolved around this technology. If you were someone to own a computer in the early 80’s you were most likely seen as a geek/nerd. This media as I referred to earlier could range from comics and anime to films and video games today. These niche aspects of geek culture that were once seen as obscure have now grown exponentially though into a more mainstream light. Basically, as tech has improved and spread to more people within popularity, ‘geek culture’ has been catapulted into the mainstream media. We don’t idealize those who can work technology or seek these niche/fantasy experiences so much as a ‘geek’ anymore because this culture is so immersed within us now. It is especially prevalent within our society when franchises’ merchandise are involved; such as, Star Wars, Lord of The Rings, or Harry Potter, which make millions of dollars in revenue.
So, what is ‘geek culture’ today if it is more immersed within mainstream media? Well, a geek is still a geek (passionate and knowledgeable on unconventional topics), but as we’ve learned it’s not so much that ‘geek culture’ has changed but that society has caught up technologically. With tech so interchangeable within our everyday lives though between media and the like are we all geeks/nerds? I believe the answer to this is subjective. Some would say no, it’s not the same thing as someone influenced by society; that being a geek still has to be a niche thing that we are disliked for. I don’t think this always has to be the case though, especially since we have all taken these medias we appreciate and marveled in them through the tech/ social media we have in order to form communities.
We now know that ‘geek culture’ is more embedded in our society than we’d imagine. A lot of people may still not enjoy being called a geek despite their hobbies, but those who do today you will most likely find at a comic shop or a comic convention. These are places where ‘geek culture’ turns into communities. Community can be such a special thing to have when you are immersed in a type of media. The amount of passion a ‘geek’ has I think sets them apart from the ideology that we’re all now geeks within the digital age. What I mean by this is a true member of ‘geek culture’ will bask in these communities whether online or in person, and will not show shame in being called a geek. They will put past differences outside of the community to come together and share their love for these stories no matter their objectives with them (art, gaming, cosplay, writing).
Since many could be considered ‘geeks’ today with it being the cool thing; would you call yourself a geek? Maybe these are some of your emotions, and you have no objection to them or your fascination with geeky hobbies. You are openly a geek who basks in the ‘geek culture’ community with an open heart. I know that I would call myself a geek. I love anime, cosplay, gaming, and the communities I found within them. If you’re a geek and have come to my page to find more geeky ‘stuff’ to enjoy then you’re in the right place! I’ll be scoping out all different kinds of comic book stores’ merchandise and getting to know people within local communities who are also a part of the ‘geek culture.’
The Geek Stop 