I object, my science career should have nothing to do with my ability to display my boobs nicely.

[gargoyal3]

There is an article out, which goes into many of the reasons behind the disparity in how many men and women choose STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) as a career. In it, the author talks about Big Bang Theory.

"Although two of the scientists on the show are women, one, Bernadette, speaks in a voice so shrill it could shatter a test

Comments

[fjorlief]

You are pretty awesome! In fact, you are one of my heros!! and if I had a child I would want them to see people like you as role models...

[gargoyal3]

Thanks! I should clarify: I would of course be very happy to see female scientists portrayed on tv as able to both do science and dress themselves. I object to the idea that one of the most popular series on tv, one that features strong female characters leading independent lives, is a bad example.
Penny, the cute and clueless, is still a waitress, always broke, and with few prospects. The others have actual careers. SIGH.

[gargoyal3]

Also, being a nerd/geek/dork means that you get to love and be passionate about all kinds of things, without having to hide them, without having to act "cool" and pretend you don't.

What you love is totally up to you, it could be your job, it could be your hobby, but being in the social groups modeled in the Big Bang Theory means that you can openly and with lots of people who agree with you, be excited about what makes you the most happy.

https://wilwheaton.net/2013/04/being-a-nerd-is-not-about-what-you-love-its-about-how-you-love-it/

Penny

[fjorlief]

I like Penny. She has limitations, but she has survival skills, talents and
often shows a quick mind. (There was one episode where she blew the guys away at one of their games). She'll never get an advanced degree, but I bet that ultimately she will do well without one.
judyfortmiller@gmail.com

[dreams_of_wings]

this is awesome. Would you mind if I shared it with my students?

[gargoyal3]

Go for it! I am getting some interesting comments from fb, and may put some of my answers here in the comments, so this link should be stable ;)

OH, and thanks!

[dreams_of_wings]

I'm teaching a class in feminism and pop culture right now, and we just finished up a two-week unit on women in television, so this post is especially relevant. :)

[the_thread_lady]

I wish more people could read this essay.

I think you are an amazing example of a modern, intelligent woman, with amazing willpower to do all you do with your physical issues. (and you are far less socially awkward than I am.)

I wish I could be you when I grow up. ;)

[gargoyal3]

thanks!

[anonymous]

Awesome! Can you indent the quoted section so it doesn't look like part of your argument? It's originally a little confusing. It's pretty clear to me, but might not be to a stranger, that the second graph is a quote.

will do it in html mode.

[gargoyal3]

done (ish)