Explaining Autism -- A Guide
Updated: Apr 7
(2023 Note: Now that I compared myself to other autists, I've realized I have Asperger's Syndrome, which can be considered part of ASD, or the Autism Spectrum Disorders. I, however, am no longer sure if I am indeed an autist, even though I was diagnosed with both Asperger's and ASD. Please, take this article with a grain of salt, as I expect you to do, with any of my articles).
**************************************
Navigating the Social Landscape with Autism
Imagine this: the world unfolds before you like a narrow corridor, with vibrant details rushing past your fixed gaze. This is the reality of many on the autism spectrum, where social cues and interactions, readily apparent to others, fall outside their immediate line of sight. It's not physical blindness, but rather.... a different way of processing and interpreting the vast, rich diversity of social signals.
Perhaps my autism/Asperger's could've contribbuted to my unique points of view towards society?
This "one line of sight" can lead to misunderstandings and misinterpretations, often common in both autists and neurotypical viewpoint towards autistis. What comes naturally to some, from unspoken rules to emotional nuances, can be a tiring puzzle for individuals on the spectrum. This is where the "social blindness" metaphor resonates. It's not a lack of cognitive ability, but a different perspective, a unique lens through which they perceive the world.
You may often find autists to be blutnly honest, which can easily distrupt the mood in a social setting that's build on masking and a gentle way of saying things. Such dependence on gentleness and comfort, minor as they are, is what makes many people weaker than they otherwise could've been.
Calling them fools or illusive is akin to judging someone for not seeing colours if they are colourblind. Failing to fit in is something some people will be more likely to do than others, simply because of how their minds work and process information. Auditory processing information, for example, is important in spoken communication, but it isn't something all autists are able to do normally. The fact that we interpret sensory data so differently from neurotypicals can be a liability of its own, when it hinders us from navigating the neurotypical landscape, which has no regard for its minorities.
The problem arises when this difference remains unacknowledged, and thus overlooked, when the one-way communication creates a chasm of misunderstanding. Autists may often be told that they need to grow up simply because they regard things, commonly viewed as minor, as things of great distress (as with certain sounds, certain pet peeves, and so on).
But does general society care? Not necessarily. Most likely, not. With their disregard, many autists begin feeling isolated from the world around them... quite profoundly.
This is where honesty and open communication become critical. By clarifying our so-called "limited social vision," individuals on the spectrum can empower others to bridge the gap, to navigate the nuances of their own social landscape. It's not about lowering expectations, but about adjusting perceptions, appreciating the strengths that lie within this alternate view.
While the world at large often regards the autist's difficulty in understanding the world, it often disregards the fact that it fails to understand the autist as well. Depending on the individual at hand, as the autistic spectrum's wide as the ocean, a certain degree of mediation will be required.
The truth is, many on the spectrum possess exceptional talent and intelligence, often obscured by the social challenges they face. I mean, look at how much I wrote thus far and how much insights I've shared with you on my platform. Do not mistake my social awkwardness for stupidity. That, by itself, would be dumb... hahaha. And for some weird reason, I also happen to dance well, despite rarely taking any lessons (epilepsy warning).
By shedding light on our unique perspectives, we open doors to collaboration, acceptance, and a richer understanding of human diversity. Remember, judging a book by its cover might make for a quick assessment, but it rarely reveals the depths of the plot within. And how could stereotypes even be a good way to understand people? Why use them in the first place?
So, let's move beyond labels and simplistic judgments. Let's embrace the spectrum of human experience, existent outside of the autism spectrum as well, of course. Let us do it, not with mercy, as it is often impractical, or condescension, but with curiosity and a willingness to understand. You know, as expected of philosophy readers, as well.
Only then can we truly appreciate the beauty and brilliance that shines from even the narrowest line of sight.
Understanding My and Others' Neurodiversity
With autism and/or despite it, I engage in the fascinating world of philosophical inquiry, as I penned many meta-philosophical content independently of any research institution. For you see, the mind, once trained enough, can also be a profound tool of research for the philosopher.
However, navigating the intricacies of social engagement and understanding can be a unique challenge, many "normal" counterparts would have little-to-no difficulty in doing. Do you see the uncanny reality of being autistic? Of being so competent at a complex field, yet remain fairly incompetent in the common social department?
Humor often eludes me, its subtleties lost in a literal landscape. At the same time, my own sense of humor eludes others as well, while it seems very obvious to me (Like saying I don't eat tomatos because I don't eat my own kind! And people fail to connect that Tomasio is like Tomato... Isn't it obvious?).
Facial expressions and vocal tones can be enigmatic codes, leaving me prone to misinterpreting situations (speaking loudly can be regarded as yelling by myself). And the world's sensory ocean can be overwhelming, bombarding my senses with intensity, leading to anxiety and social fatigue, rendering me largely asocial.
And that small talk! Obviously philosophizing is a far superior and more effective use of my time, that otherwise could've been invested on working on Philosocom. I'm a practical, hard-working man who is intending to prove certain people wrong with my vengeful altruism.
This "social blindness" I speak of can thus be regarded as very different and opposing viewpoints to that of society and even of other autists. I live to work. Do some of you find it funny that serving my readership is more important than spending a life of hedonism? Of course it does, for some obscure reason, which easily hinders the output your own productivity.
Anyways, this "blindness" of viewpoints, should demand the need for clear and direct communication with individuals on the spectrum. Not in petty arguements, no, but in discussions, which can yield more productive results. Explaining social cues explicitly, exploring the autists' perspectives, and allowing for sensory breaks, can bridge the gap. Many ways, otherwise unexplored, can cultivate a greater understanding, and increase prevention of misinterpretations. Remember, patience and open-mindedness are invaluable tools in this journey.
And what I do as a philosopher myself is to respect that of which I don't understand fully. How can I understand an idea properly if I keep myself busy ridiculing it?
Equally important is the need to reclaim the word "autistic" as something that's negative. Of course this verdict of being, under certain circumstances, can be unfortunate, as with the example of Chris Chan, whose poor theory I've covered here. Instead, let's embrace the diversity of the spectrum, recognizing the unique strengths and talents each individual possesses. That is important, you see, in organizations, too. One way to do it, for example, is by merit-planning.
Finally, let's dispel the harmful and inaccurate stereotype that autism equates to intellectual retardation. The spectrum, as its name suggests, is expansive, encompassing individuals with a wide range of cognitive abilities. Many on the spectrum demonstrate exceptional intelligence, while others function within a different range. Regardless, each individual deserves respect and acceptance for their unique contributions to the world.
In essence, remember that communication is first of all a bridge, and it doesn't need to be battlefield. It is the message, for example, that deserves most priority. When we extend that bridge with empathy and understanding, we not only pave the way for inclusion, but also open ourselves to the enriching diversity of human experience, and get to learn much too, than we would've otherwise. Why not, then, dismantle the walls of ignorance, bridge the gaps with patience? After all, learning is very much worth our while. Especially when applied for life.
Offer a helping hand for your own sake. Explain things patiently, in ways that resonate with their unique framework. Don't call treat different people like children. You wouldn't want to induce a panic attack, now, would you? No, this isn't a threat. To put it simply... Learning from past mistakes, even those that aren't your own, can spare you much unnecessary suffering from both sides.
