While I have never been militant over the terms, my preference is for ‘Trekker’, which seems more grammatically appropriate. When I see people jogging outside, I would refer to them not as joggies, but as joggers.
In the UK in the 1990s when I first started hanging out with other Star Trek fans, it was always 'Trekkie'. I don't think I've ever met a self-confessed 'Trekker' although via Usenet I recognised that this was in common currency in the US. It does make me wonder about the national split between these two terms! Also: there might be a generational split here.
I note that in 1970, the fanzine Deck 6 had this paragraph:
"If you object to opinions expressed or statements made in DECK 6, please don’t blame the 'Deck 6 gang.' With the exception of issue #1 (which was written by Ellen), I’m responsible. Any contributions by the rest of the gang will be so labeled, so if you’re planning to hit anyone, better aim at me. The gang is a definite help, though—they keep my spirits up, and beat me down when I start acting like a bubble-headed trekkie (rather than a sober, dignified—albeit enthusiastic—trekker)."
This suggests to me that 'trekker' was an attempt to push against the negative connotations of 'trekkie'. But for me, 'trekkie' never had any negative connotations! I'd never use 'trekker' to describe myself, but I don't think I'd be offended by the label. I just don't use it, because it was never spoken around me.
Yeah it's a non-issue - least for me - tho I can see why/where for some it matters. I recall a friend whom I met at a con who emphasized using Trekker and not Trekkie for that negative spin on the latter, so I guess after that I figured I'd be more a Trekker. Like the meme says, just say you love Trek - all that truly matters in the end.
What's really interesting in research for the video is how Star Trek really is unique in nicknames for a fanbase. What are Star Wars fans called? Marvel/DC? Perhaps something, but it's certainly not in our accepted or celebrated planetary lexicon - pretty pop culture impressive all around.
While I have never been militant over the terms, my preference is for ‘Trekker’, which seems more grammatically appropriate. When I see people jogging outside, I would refer to them not as joggies, but as joggers.
Nicely said.
In the UK in the 1990s when I first started hanging out with other Star Trek fans, it was always 'Trekkie'. I don't think I've ever met a self-confessed 'Trekker' although via Usenet I recognised that this was in common currency in the US. It does make me wonder about the national split between these two terms! Also: there might be a generational split here.
I note that in 1970, the fanzine Deck 6 had this paragraph:
"If you object to opinions expressed or statements made in DECK 6, please don’t blame the 'Deck 6 gang.' With the exception of issue #1 (which was written by Ellen), I’m responsible. Any contributions by the rest of the gang will be so labeled, so if you’re planning to hit anyone, better aim at me. The gang is a definite help, though—they keep my spirits up, and beat me down when I start acting like a bubble-headed trekkie (rather than a sober, dignified—albeit enthusiastic—trekker)."
This suggests to me that 'trekker' was an attempt to push against the negative connotations of 'trekkie'. But for me, 'trekkie' never had any negative connotations! I'd never use 'trekker' to describe myself, but I don't think I'd be offended by the label. I just don't use it, because it was never spoken around me.
All the best,
Chris.
Yeah it's a non-issue - least for me - tho I can see why/where for some it matters. I recall a friend whom I met at a con who emphasized using Trekker and not Trekkie for that negative spin on the latter, so I guess after that I figured I'd be more a Trekker. Like the meme says, just say you love Trek - all that truly matters in the end.
What's really interesting in research for the video is how Star Trek really is unique in nicknames for a fanbase. What are Star Wars fans called? Marvel/DC? Perhaps something, but it's certainly not in our accepted or celebrated planetary lexicon - pretty pop culture impressive all around.
I'm fine with both, but I use Trekkie in my new book simply because it's the one most people recognize...
Good point. Congrats on your book!
Thanks!