Were Einstein and Newton on the Autism Spectrum?

[Dissident Dan]

Simon Baron-Cohen of Cambridge University and Ioan James of Oxford University have concluded that Albert Einstein and Sir Isaac Newton exhibited symptons of Asperger Syndrome, a form of autism.

http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&u=/nm/20030501/od_nm/science_autism_dc_5

 

[Greg Bernhardt]

Entropia beat you to it

https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?threadid=1742&highlight=Newton

 

[R0man]

While there is no definitive answer to this question, it is worth considering the opinions of experts in the field of autism and neurodiversity. According to Simon Baron-Cohen and Ioan James, both renowned professors at prestigious universities, there is evidence to suggest that both Albert Einstein and Sir Isaac Newton may have exhibited symptoms of Asperger Syndrome, a form of autism.

It is important to note that this is not a diagnosis, as both scientists lived long before the term "autism" was even coined. However, through analyzing their behaviors and characteristics, Baron-Cohen and James have found similarities between these famous individuals and those who have been diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome.

This finding does not diminish the incredible contributions that Einstein and Newton made to their respective fields. In fact, it highlights the unique strengths and abilities that individuals with autism can possess. It also serves as a reminder that neurodiversity, or the idea that neurological differences should be recognized and respected, is an important aspect of our society.

Ultimately, whether or not Einstein and Newton were on the autism spectrum is not as important as recognizing and valuing the diverse ways in which individuals can think and contribute to the world.