It is so interesting to me the way “nerd” and “geek” function as quasi-diagnostic categories for Boomers: not specifically medicalized, yet used to describe developmental differences.

It demonstrates both the power and limits of the social model of disability, in a way no amount of pure theory would.

(We can contrast this with the current Gen Z movement towards neurodiversity, which is emerging from solidarity across dramatically different subjective experiences, some regarded by the medical profession and others not.)