the way to get more women into computing is to become fitter and more social.
This is one of the most ridiculous things I've read here. You think women base their acceptence of a job due to how "fit" and "outgoing" their co-workers are? You've got to
be kidding! Are women so shallow as to judge their work environment on the base
of their co-workers looks and personalities? NO! I don't think this occurs with
either sex. Sure, there are exceptions - but you seem to be speaking in general terms -
so this reply is reacting to that frame of mind. It's great to be in shape, but do
it for yourself - not for some other edification. What if a woman programmer likes the
sterotyped "programmer guru?" Hmmm? I know I did not start programming or being
interested in computers due to the "fitness" of my fellow students nor how "social" they
were. It was based on how much I enjoyed the work, the environment (I should say -
management style that many IT/Tech departments have...), and my co-workers - fat or thin,
quiet or outgoing - they are all respected based on their merits, not physical and social
standards (which are subjective). They know/knew their job well and did it well. That's
what counts, right? I think so.
Granted, your post may have meant well
mugwumpjism - I just didn't particularly appreciate a bit of the aspects of it.
Update: I agree
tadman - although I haven't run into that quite yet. Again.. historically this whole mediation may be very accurate. My experiences have been different - it's possible I've run into exceptions.