When dealing with engineers it's very important to remember a few things: Engineers are all basically high-functioning autistics who have no idea how nor

When dealing with engineers it's very important to remember a few things: Engineers are all basically high-functioning autistics who have no idea how normal people do stuff. Cory Doctorow A milder form of this is frequently called Asperger's syndrome.[1] Sorry for the extended quote, but its from the Harvard Medical School family health guide, so hopefully there is at least some scientific consensus behind it: Despite normal and sometimes superior intelligence, people with Asperger’s have difficulty understanding social conventions and reading social cues. As a result, they often seem tactless or rude, and making friends can be hard for them. They may be unable to take hints, keep secrets, or understand metaphor, irony, and humor. The meaning of gestures, tone of voice, and facial expressions are a mystery to them, and their own body language and expressions may be inappropriate or hard to interpret. They stand too close, talk too loudly, and don’t make eye contact. Having said all that, in my experience engineers are often very coachable and can be taught social skills. The quintessential stereotype for this character is the scientist Sheldon Cooper on The Big Bang Theory. [1] http://www.health.harvard.edu/fhg/updates/update0305a.shtml http://www.health.harvard.edu/fhg/updates/update0305a.shtml