Find Your Inner Nerd With ‘Big Bang Theory’

Even though we don’t like to admit it, we all have some incriminating evidence of our own secret inner nerd: whether it’s that “Battlestar Galactica” backgrounds on our computers that rotate every so often or the Mr. Spock poster hanging above our bed at home. Or maybe that’s just me.

We all have some tiny bit of nerd deep down in our personality that we’re a little ashamed of, but CBS’s smash sitcom “The Big Bang Theory” is here to help us get in touch with our nerdier tendencies.

The show follows the lives of four research scientists living in Los Angeles trying to make leaps into the realm of social normalcy. Their neighbor, Penny (Kaley Cuoco), assists them in trying to assimilate into mainstream culture by having them partake in such activities as watching football and dating.

However, the show isn’t all about them attempting to be “normal.” They have plenty of nerdy adventures on their own. Once you see the show, it becomes obvious that the breakout character is Sheldon (Jim Parsons), who tends to have the majority of the quips that put the dim-witted persons they encounter back in their place.

When first watching the show, I was skeptical of its brand of comedy. I was especially wondering how it managed to become the 16th highest viewed show on television, beating out shows I adore, such as “30 Rock” and even “The Office.” With so much success, I wondered why I had never even heard of it.

After watching an episode (that my TiVo so helpfully suggested I view), I felt like the show was a little too much- it was very cerebral and a little too nerdy even for me. After I gave it another chance and tried to have a more open mind, I really began to enjoy the show. The writing is strong, the actors play their parts well, and I enjoy all the nerdy references that pop up in each episode.

Even if you haven’t heard of “The Big Bang Theory,” it’s certainly worth viewing once or twice. Obviously many people enjoy it, and you might too. The show airs Mondays at 9:30 p.m. on CBS.