Miss Conduct

[abka]

This thing on "parasocial relationships" seems to be the clearest definition of what makes some people more naturally fannish than others. It made me think specifically of my sister who is very attached to real people, but does not understand how one can empathize with fictional characters (movies tend to bore her or put her to sleep, and although she reads a lot we often have really different tastes in fiction).

The first paragraph of this column also really resonated with me. I didn't grow up in Boston (but kind of close enough?) but I really absorbed the "politeness is leaving someone alone to do their own thing" message. It's one of the things that makes DC feel not exactly the same as home for me. I think often times getting out of the way is still the polite thing to do (metro anyone?) but there are still times people I don't know talk to me (like in public, interacting with a clerk or taxi driver or someone) and it makes me feel uncomfortable when I know they're trying to be polite (presumably to make me feel more comfortable).

Plus sci-fi discussion (more in comments).

Comments

[abka.livejournal.com]

Yes, I echo "so good, so very, very good!" And I'd like to add interpersonal relationships and how people react in extreme circumstances to coffman's list of awesome things about BSG :)

[lifeinlondon.livejournal.com]

And I'd like to add interpersonal relationships and how people react in extreme circumstances

Cool - above all, I think the thing that ties together all my favorite tv series is incredible character development.