Geeks and Science Fiction: Does One Have to Be a Geek to Enjoy a Good Science Fiction Book?

A geek is defined according to Wikipedia "as an individual who is fascinated by knowledge and imagination, usually electronic or virtual in nature. Geek may not always have the same meaning as the term nerd. The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines the word geek as "1: a carnival performer often billed as a wild man whose act usually includes biting the head off a live chicken or snake 2: a person often of an intellectual bent who is disliked 3: an enthusiast or expert especially in a technological field or activity," though these are only three of many definitions."

The word geek has taken on many modern definitions as well.

• Some self- proclaimed geeks define a geek as one whose primary motivation is passion. Meaning they are not looking for financial gain or ever lasting glory.

• Someone with an above average interest in technology-with emphasis on computers and new media can be termed a geek.

• An individual that can use academics learned through academic studies and pursuits and to relate to every day situations. (The show Numbers ring a bell to anyone?????)

• An individual who has elected to focus his or her energies on concentration - a specific individual thing than conforming to society. This is someone who pursues a certain craft with both love and imagination. AKA Stephen Hawking or Gene Roddenberry.

• Someone who is so devoted to an idea or concept, to the point that he or she is not in the societal mainstream. Anyone who wanted to be on American Idol and nothing else fits this definition. Dr. Phil even fits this within his realm of psychology. Game players, band members (even some roadies), Indiana Jones and George Lucas fit this definition as well.

• Someone with low to inept social skills- no matter the intelligence factor. We all know someone like that. Someone simply not good with people. Doctors with poor to no bedside manners for starters.

• A person whose carnival act is to swallow live bugs. (Ick, just ick.)

• Someone who bombasts society in general, but has a high functional part in it. Several members of academia could qualify with this definition.