Normie

Ah, Normies. The scourge of Oberlin to some, the bread and butter to others.

This is another word originating from a group of current- and ex-Harkies in early 2007 that actually caught on with some (see also InCoppropriate and UnCopomfortable). The word normie describes, in theory, an Oberlin student who typifies normality, homogeneity, and conservative or apathetic political affiliations. It runs in contrast to the once-cherished* image of Obies as radical, free-thinking, fiery liberals and intellectuals.

Of course, the term normie carries with it an ironic twist, along with the interminable assumption that each new generation of students just "ain't like they used to be." Other rhetorical questions to consider: What exactly is normal? Is the school really getting any worse? How can a school with such a high average income really be that heterogeneous at all? And of course, it is only a matter of taste as to whether being a normie or being a hipster is worse. The cynic might gibe that they are really two pieces of the same pie.

A stereotyped normie persona might look something like this: Neutral-to-positive opinions of Fearless, preternatural disdain for Harkness and Keep, an affinity for Coldplay, minimal understanding of any pertinent political issue, a super-single in East.

Vegans, TIMARA majors and communists are never normies. Moderates and jocks might be. Any unironically worn fearless garb is a red flag.

As of 2008, there are at least a dozen posts on Oberlin Confessional that include the word normie.

'*Or, if you're a normie, once-hated.