Wednesday, May 05, 2010

Most interesting article about autism in New Scientist magazine

Here's an article in a science magazine about autism that takes seriously the proposition that autistic minds can display scientifically measurable advantages over neurotypical minds in a number of different areas. It discusses Michelle Dawson and the type of research that she has been doing with great care and committment for years now. I believe this is the kind of stuff that could only be found in this science magazine. While most journalists and science writers take their cues about how to write and think about autism from the autism-related charities and parent support groups that have a curebie point of view, the people at New Scientist frequently show an awareness that there is another point of view (held by many of the magazine's technically-minded readers) and there is scientific evidence out there that doesn't sit well with the catastrophic view of autism. I hope this article is a sign of things to come. A book could surely be written that covers the fascinating research that is only briefly outlined here, if not by Michelle Dawson, then by someone else.

The advantages of autism
David Wolman
New Scientist
May 4th 2010
Issue number 2758
http://www.newscientist.com/article/mg20627581.500-the-advantages-of-autism.html?full=true

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