The Big Bang Theory

The Big Bang Theory

The Friendship Algorithm

The clip from the popular television show, The Big Bang Theory, is based around the lives of a group of nerdy friends.  In this episode called The Friendship Algorithm, Sheldon is having a difficult time becoming friends with one of his coworkers.  Because of this, he decides to create a formula that he believes will allow him to make friends by following the steps exactly as he has written down.  The simple fact that Sheldon has to take the time to plan out a flow chart consisting of questions such as, "would you like to share a meal?" followed by "what is the response?", portrays his lack of social skills, as the average person would be able to hold a conversation like this without hesitation.  His suggestions are repeatedly rejected, and because of his difficulties with social situations, he questions the man on the phone saying, "what is wrong with you?".  This is clearly not the way to treat someone you are trying to become friends with.  Not only does he become frustrated with the situation, but he asks the person on the phone to hold on while they figure out a solution.  Moreover, he is clueless about what to say once his equation is not working out the way he planned.  Once his friend, Wolowitz, finds a solution, Sheldon insults Wolowitz by acting like he would not be smart enough to discover the solution.  Even Wolowitz then realizes talking like this is most likely the reason Sheldon has trouble making friends as he does not understand how to treat others with respect.  Throughout the entire scene, he is also pacing around the room and stuttering while trying to get his thoughts out through speech in the conversation.  It goes to show that his is not a normal situation for Sheldon and he does not know how to properly go about it, unlike his usual science problems.