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).

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 didn't think of that but you are right about research not being undone once it is done.  However, attitudes to those on the margins are more likely to change on ignorance not actual facts.  So research should help dispel myths but of course, with the nature of research, that is not guaranteed.  You never know what you might find when delving deeper.

Yes, I accept that.  Historically, these things have come in cycles, and perhaps this cycle is reaching its closing stages.  In due course, there'll be others, I imagine, but in the meanwhile I'll try to hang on to some of your optimism!

Yes, I accept that.  Historically, these things have come in cycles, and perhaps this cycle is reaching its closing stages.  In due course, there'll be others, I imagine, but in the meanwhile I'll try to hang on to some of your optimism!