fact or fiction

Is it a fact or is it merely fiction? Fact or Fiction explores the lesser known truths in the geek universe.

The Wizard’s Guide to Surviving Social Gatherings (When You’d Rather Be Reading Spellbooks)
Social energy operates on a fundamental law of magic: it cannot be created or destroyed, only painfully extracted from introverts through forced small talk and unexpected eye contact. For those of us who consider "people-ing" a skill tree we never invested points in, navigating social situations often feels like being a low-level wizard at a bard convention—surrounded by charismatic performers while we desperately conserve our last remaining spell slot for an emergency Invisibility cast.
By Just One of Those Things7 months ago in Geeks
The 3 Legendary Sannins
Naruto’s Legendary Sannin are not arbitrary. They’re part of a lineage tracing back over 200 years—Edo-period fantastical tales infused into modern anime. By embedding elements like toad-slug-snake dynamics, faithful character archetypes, and folkloric plotlines, Masashi Kishimoto created a contemporary epic tethered to Japanese myth. They serve as perfect examples of how anime can bring ancient tradition to global screens—maintaining authenticity while adapting structure and themes for new audiences.
By JRManglicmot7 months ago in Geeks
Demon Slayer: Bridging Japanese Folklore and Modern Anime
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba has captivated audiences worldwide, not only for its compelling storytelling and stunning animation but also for its deep roots in Japanese folklore and history. Set during the Taisho era (1912–1926), the series masterfully intertwines traditional themes with modern anime sensibilities, creating a unique narrative that resonates across generations.
By JRManglicmot8 months ago in Geeks
Beyond the Boy Who Lived. Content Warning.
Trigger Warning: This Article discusses transphobia, including J. K. Rowling’s public statements and their impact on the LGBTQ+ community. Please take care while reading. Support-based resources are listed at the end.
By Jenna Deedy8 months ago in Geeks
Book Review: Daring Greatly by Brené Brown
About the Author Brené Brown is a research professor at the University of Houston, where she holds the Huffington Foundation Endowed Chair. She has spent over two decades studying courage, vulnerability, shame, and empathy, becoming a leading voice in these fields. Brown gained widespread recognition through her 2010 TEDx talk on vulnerability, which has garnered millions of views. She has authored several bestsellers, including The Gifts of Imperfection, Rising Strong, and Atlas of the Heart. Her work blends rigorous academic research with accessible storytelling, making complex emotional concepts relatable. Brown’s books, podcasts, and Netflix special, The Call to Courage, have inspired a global audience to embrace vulnerability as a strength.
By Am@n Khan 8 months ago in Geeks
Islam and Science: A Historical and Contemporary Perspective. Content Warning.
Introduction The relationship between Islam and science has been a subject of fascination and study for centuries. From the Golden Age of Islam (8th to 13th centuries) to the modern era, Muslim scholars have made significant contributions to scientific disciplines while navigating the interplay between faith and empirical inquiry. This article explores the historical and contemporary connections between Islam and science, highlighting key contributions, philosophical perspectives, and ongoing discussions.
By Am@n Khan 8 months ago in Geeks
Book Review: Zero To One by Peter Thiel
"Zero to One: Notes on Startups, or How to Build the Future" by Peter Thiel with Blake Masters, published in 2014, is a seminal work on entrepreneurship and innovation. Drawing from Thiel’s experience as a co-founder of PayPal and Palantir, and as an early investor in companies like Facebook, the book challenges conventional business wisdom. Thiel argues that true innovation involves creating something entirely new—going from "zero to one"—rather than iterating on existing ideas (going from "one to n"). The book emphasizes building businesses that achieve monopoly-like status through unique value propositions, rather than competing in crowded markets.
By Am@n Khan 8 months ago in Geeks
The Evolution Of A Word: Eve
Introduction Earlier today, I was merrily traipsing about on X (the platform previously known as Twitter) when I noticed the phrase “Happy Friday Eve” trending. Now, while the word “eve” is usually associated with holiday events (e.g., “Christmas Eve” or “All Hallow’s Eve”), it can certainly be used in other contexts. We could say “Taco Tuesday Eve,” for instance, or “Final Fantasy Pre-release Eve” – and so, without a doubt, we could certainly say “Happy Friday Eve” without expecting much backlash. However, it did start my mind down a certain path, on which I wondered: “What, exactly, is the etymology of the word?”
By Laura Pruett8 months ago in Geeks
Enough Is Enough: Women of Color In Fandom Deserve Support-Not Smear Campaigns. Content Warning.
Content/Trigger Warning: This article discusses topics including online harassment, racism, misogyny, and discrimination in fandom spaces. It also references real-life examples of targeted abuse toward public figures, particularly women of color. Reader discretion is advised.
By Jenna Deedy8 months ago in Geeks
The Evolution of the Word "Geek"
Introduction The word "geek" has undergone one of the most dramatic transformations in the English language. It used to be a derogatory term for carnival performers, but now it is a badge of honor for intellectuals, tech innovators, and fans of pop culture. How did this shift happen? What does "geek" mean today—and where might it go next? We look at: The shocking history of the word "geek" (hint: biting chicken heads) The transition from insult to subculture in the 20th century The rise of "geek chic" and the tech boom ✔ Modern interpretations: Are you a geek, nerd, or dork?
By Silas Blackwood8 months ago in Geeks
Stitch Holds Incredibly, Karate Kid Lack Force: British Box Office Round up May 30-Jun 01
The first week of June brings viewers to the movie screens in their droves. After a blockbuster weekend last week, both 'Lilo and Stitch' and 'Mission: Impossible' keep hold of the number one and two spots on the top 10 for the weekend. Coming in a distant third was the first weekend of 'Karate Kid: Legends', bringing together Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio to the tune of £2.6million, nearly a whole million behind Mission in second place with £3.5million.
By Sam Gamble8 months ago in Geeks
Book Review: Mindset: The New Psychology of Success
Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck explores the transformative power of adopting the right mindset to achieve personal and professional success. Dweck, a renowned psychologist, introduces the concept of two fundamental mindsets: the fixed mindset and the growth mindset. A fixed mindset assumes that abilities, intelligence, and talents are static traits, leading individuals to avoid challenges, fear failure, and feel threatened by others’ success. Conversely, a growth mindset embraces the belief that abilities can be developed through effort, learning, and perseverance, fostering resilience and a passion for growth.
By Am@n Khan 8 months ago in Geeks