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The Adorkable Misogyny of The Big Bang Theory

Pop Culture DetectiveCited 5× on HN, 2017–2023
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commentary · general · evergreen · 2017–2023 on HN

A video essay from Pop Culture Detective arguing that The Big Bang Theory normalizes sexism and toxic masculinity through its portrayal of nerd men. It analyzes recurring tropes in how the male leads treat women.

Cited as a critique whenever HN discusses the show's depiction of nerd culture and STEM men.

Film analysis & criticismSocial issues & culture#bigbangtheory#misogyny#videoessay#nerdculture

5 comments from Hacker News

@tempusr2023-12 · in “What we watched: Netflix releases global viewing figures”

Sure, but the show displays toxic masculinity as a dorky thing that "nerds" just do. Overall, I believe the show is a terrible role model for how men who are in STEM fields should behave to others who do not fit the stereotype. ▶ this video link

Critical View on HN
@Kye2023-12 · in “What we watched: Netflix releases global viewing figures”

Pop Culture Detective did a short set of videos on it that matched my first impressions: ▶ this video link I don't know how to mesh that with Wil Wheaton speaking so fondly of his time on the show in his book. Even the updated one where he talks about his past views and behavior with exceptional self-awareness.

Critical View on HN
@nydel2019-05 · in ““The Big Bang Theory” Normalized Nerd Culture”

I find this piece on toxic masculinity in The Big Bang Theory much more interesting than the show or this article: ▶ this video (The Adorkable Misogyny of The Big Bang Theory by Pop Culture Detective) I'm happy for people who can enjoy The Big Bang Theory but I find it difficult personally.

Critical View on HN
@anonymfus2019-05 · in ““The Big Bang Theory” Normalized Nerd Culture”

It is not just Sheldon who is extremely sexist in their group. Here are Pop Culture Detective's video essays highlighting misogynistic and toxic-masculine behaviour of all these "nerd" characters: ▶ this video link

Critical View on HN
@alistproducer22017-12 · in “Kids in ‘Netflix Only’ Homes Saved from 230 Hours of Commercials a Year”

Just in case anyone still (or ever liked) BBT, check this video on how the show perpetuates misogyny. I was a fan, but after watching this it totally changed my perspective on the show. ▶ this video

Critical View on HN

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