Interesting Presentation and discussion from Sir Simon Baron-Cohen

I understand the worry of the autistic community regarding research but I hope this Spectrum 10K study does get the go ahead.  Yes the research has to be done in conjunction with the ASD community but I don't think it should be delayed any longer than needs be.  The more information we have, the better we can educate the wider population and change their attitude towards ASD and all types of neurodivergent people.

Anyone see the program on Jay Blades learning to read at 53?  Dyslexia is another neurodivergent condition but people with dyslexia rarely achieved their full potential because the education system used to just think them stupid.  In reality, dyslexics have a very good imagination, high levels of creativity and are generally excellent at seeing the bigger picture (unlike us with ASD).

I understand the worry of the autistic community regarding research but I hope this Spectrum 10K study does get the go ahead.  Yes the research has to be done in conjunction with the ASD community but I don't think it should be delayed any longer than needs be.  The more information we have, the better we can educate the wider population and change their attitude towards ASD and all types of neurodivergent people.

Anyone see the program on Jay Blades learning to read at 53?  Dyslexia is another neurodivergent condition but people with dyslexia rarely achieved their full potential because the education system used to just think them stupid.  In reality, dyslexics have a very good imagination, high levels of creativity and are generally excellent at seeing the bigger picture (unlike us with ASD).

The issue is that once this research has been done, it can't be undone.  You are at the mercy of future decision making by politicians and health decision makers as yet unknown. In the US trans people were beginning to feel a lot safer, then Trump was elected and the trans community was suddenly in a very vulnerable position. I would also like to see such research done but global events do make people nervous about who might be in charge of their destiny in future decades and who might seize control of the resulting information. 

I looked at joining spectrum 10k. Then I read some of the arguments in the autistic community. Seems there's a lack of clarity about how the DNA samples they intended to collect will be used, both in terms of study and in the future. Perhaps for some people, those who are offended by the use of the term aspergers for instance, it brings up the notion of the *** purification attempts? I don't know either way, purely what I surmise. I was undecided on it all, so gave it a miss. All personal choice!

I saw the Jay Blades programme. Found it fascinating. Especially the lady who used codes for various products. CH. BIS instead of chocolate biscuits for instance. Amazing coping mechanisms. And I thought how brave people are to admit they can't read and seek help. Especially in their 50's+. It must be a real shock in some families where it hasn't been mentioned before. I just thought: Good for you! Cracking programme.