There are certain things in my life that I simply do not understand, and social interaction is quite high upon that list. I have a difficult time understanding people’s emotions in face to face conversation, and, to be perfectly honest, I just don’t find a lot of importance in what most people have to say. This is definitely quite the flaw when it comes to trying to interact with others, and in going about my day to day.
Fortunately, Doctor Who may have provided an answer for those who, like myself, have difficulty understanding general social interaction. Not only has the Twelfth Doctor taken to using Clara as his guide when it comes to social interaction, and in determining what not to say in any given situation, but he has also devised a series of flash cards to help him remember what to say at a given moment.
This is a truly brilliant idea. Now, instead of alienating almost everyone he meets, the Doctor can have these handy quick reference guides with the correct phrases upon them for whatever circumstances he finds himself in. Of course, there will be bumps in the road, such as his reading every part, including the slashes, on the card ‘I’m sorry for the death of your friend/family member/pet,’ but these mistakes are easily corrected.
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Likewise, these flash cards could take a great deal of stress from Clara. Now, instead of having to remind the Doctor that certain reactions to what others are saying would be thoroughly unacceptable, through repetitive training, he may be able to handle these situations on his own. Even in a worst case scenario, the Doctor will be able to recognize that this is a situation that calls for his flash cards, and might even be able to locate the correct card on his own.
These flash cards would certainly have a valuable place outside the Whoniverse as well. As I tend to find social settings to be among the most uncomfortable situations that I can be a part of, having something like these flash cards to help would be a relief. If nothing else, it would take some stress from my fiancée, who generally has to explain social nuances to me.
Once again, Doctor Who has created something brilliant that can be of use in our day to day lives. In this case, these flash cards can help make a thoroughly awkward situation one that, while it may not be pleasurable, far less stress inducing.