Oppressed Nerd Mentality

[TVarmy]

I am concerned about the mentality forming in many of my teammates and FIRST members in general. Although gracious professionalism is meant to overcome this, I feel that there is too much focus on winning the competition. Building a versatile robot, making the best animation, or even giving back to the community all become a means to an end.

Further, many pick up a "better than you" stance on life because of not fitting in social situations and believing that their academic abilities will allow them to excel in the "real world." They embrace their flaws, and begin to feel entitled to many things, even when they are not. They come to embrace the American Dream, viewing success as monetary wealth rather than less materialistic ideals. This is especially clear in the thread Books that Inspired You. Self help books and literature that is pro- competition are often cited, further emphasizing the spread of the myth that the only good life is one that is "successful" among First members.

This philosophy is dangerous, as many shed their morality to continue on their dreams, nay, destinies ( ) of riches. Many speculate that the Enron traders who formed the California Energy Crisis (and laughed while doing so) allowed themselves to cause so much hardship to the citizens of that state because of this.

I encourage mentors, teachers, and leaders in First teams to remind those under you of what is truly important in life, that it is not all about getting a big promotion, owning the biggest car, or (to a lesser extent) winning the regional competition. The American Dream can bring happiness, but one must remember to consider what his or her actions will truly cause for the world.