Friedman begins with, “bringing to our attention”, the type of terms our society uses to describe the “intellectually curious and academically serious.” These types of derogatory terms aid in displaying Fridmans view point on the subject as he believes that the `use of these words to describe nerd and geeks are in fact an issue. Fridman uses diction that disgraces our society who casts out nerds because of their “intelligence and refusal to conform to societies anti-intellectual values.” Friedman applies the term “ostracized” as a later follow up to the previous description of how it is common for the child who’d rather study or read books is looked down upon versus athletes who are falsely praised. In his essay, Friedman gives us insight on the negative connotation of the nerd and the failure to criticize the ones deserving of it.
The author’s choice of details helps us to understand how nerds are view in America. He explains the origins of “Geek”, in Webster dictionary used to mean, “A freak biting the head off alive chicken”, making the audience realize how American culture has belittle the pursuit of knowledge throughout the history. Furthermore, the choice of detail helps us to understand what a nerd is outside of America. He says, “In east Asia, a kid who studies hard is held up as an example”. This quote helps us understand that Americans takes knowledge for granted and not something looked upon. The choices of details