I’m a newcomer in that world of people seeking to understand autism. About eleven years ago I tripped into it while exploring the possible repercussions of a theory of human evolution that presupposed we evolved from matrifocal social structures. The theory predicted a group of people with large brains and difficulty speaking. Ever since I’ve been exploring the connections between this alternative theory of evolution and conditions characterized by the possible emergence of features of ancient matrifocal aboriginal societies.
I continue to be astonished by the work of Simon Baron-Cohen. It’s not just his studies that are superb. As an advocate for the autistic, he reveals a deep respect, almost reverence for those whose lives are effected by the condition. It seems rare that a single academic reveals intelligence, compassion and common sense. Jane Goodall and her work comes to mind.
Over and over I read about practitioners and studies that forget that we are the middle of a mystery. Fear and ego seem to drive no small part of the discussion regarding autism and Aspergers. Baron-Cohen’s contribution offers calm.
