Dating Game: What Do Brainy Scientists Do on Dates?

Scientists dating scientists? It sounds like the beginnings of a stand-up comedy joke. What happens when two scientists go out on a date? The punch line could be: They have a blast-off for an out-of-this-world experience.

Actually, scientists who date each other are no different than any less brainy people who seek the traditional human companionship and relationships. However, since their minds may be on a more scientific level than most ordinary folks, some specific suggestions relating to their areas of expertise could help them decide what to do when they get together on a social event.

1. Institutional interlude: They may enjoy spending time together at the local planetarium, aquarium or museum. They can admire the art work, and check on the newest discoveries, as well as the oldest antiquities.

2. If you prefer to be alone as a couple in pursuing your mutual scientific studies, take a pair of powerful binoculars or small telescope up to the top of a hill on a clear, starry night. You'll discover the heavens are much more interesting to observe when you're both flat on your backs on a comfortable blanket, sipping wine and munching sandwiches together.

3. Get DVDs of science-related movies, cuddle up on a couch, pop some popcorn and enjoy such classics as, Apollo 13, Spaceballs, WALL-E, Space Cowboys, Jurassic Park and that timeless classic, Plan 9 From Outer Space. If it will make you cuddle even closer, get DVD movies about mad scientists, including those about Frankenstein and Dracula.

4. If you're near a water or ocean park where you can snorkel or swim with seals, dolphins or sting rays, make it a special date. You can enjoy your time together in the water as you observe and learn about the habitats and how the animals are taught to relate safely with humans.

5. Make your scientific date a specially memorable one by volunteering together to escort a class of inner city kids to the zoo, museum or other local learning institution. You'll enjoy the experience, as well as feel good about accomplishing something meaningful together. If you continue to volunteer for such expeditions, this is a great way to assure there will be future dates together.

Scientists and people who like science shouldn't allow their highbrow education and careers get in the way of pursuing nature's basic and most interesting study. By dating another scientist, you'll be certain to achieve a close- up and personal observation of human mating rituals.