Understanding the Autism Culture Wars: Insights and Reflections
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Chapter 1: Introduction to the Autism Culture Wars
In the eBook titled The Autism Culture Wars, I delve into what thinkers like Freire, hooks, Táíwò, and Chapman can teach us about the dynamics of cultural upheaval and resolution.
The Journey to Understanding
With two undergraduate qualifications under my belt—one being a diploma in Child and Youth Work and the other a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology—I’ve been on a long educational journey. I completed my CYW in 2006 and my BA in Psychology in 2009. Recently, at 40 years old, I decided to return to university to elevate my credentials for further academic pursuits.
When I registered for courses, I prioritized those that were available online and flexible enough to accommodate my work and family commitments. By chance, I discovered two courses that sparked my interest: Language Policy & Planning and Rhetoric, Writing, & Communications. Given my passion for written communication and critical discourse, I felt the rhetoric course would be an excellent fit, and thankfully, it was. The professor was remarkable, and I thoroughly enjoyed the subject matter.
As the course progressed towards final presentations and papers, I realized I could apply my learning to pressing issues that I, as a member of the Autistic community, have been addressing for years. These are matters the community has wrestled with for decades.
I recognize that I do not possess all the answers; far more knowledgeable scholars are still grappling with these intricate topics. Nevertheless, I am grateful to contribute, however modestly, to the strengthening of our community and the pursuit of collective liberation. Thus, I share my insights drawn from the works of academic and philosophical thinkers who have positively influenced advocacy.
Chapter 2: The Impact of All in a Row
In February 2019, a cultural conflict within the Autistic community was reignited by the theatrical performance, All in a Row. Although staged in the UK, the play's effects resonated globally. The narrative centers on a family comprising a mother, a father, and their 11-year-old son, Laurence, who is Autistic. Interestingly, Laurence is portrayed by a puppet while the other characters are represented by live actors. The entire play unfolds in a single day, showcasing the challenges faced by the parents, Martin and Tamora, as they strive to provide adequate support for their son.
After the play's premiere, the rift within the Autistic community became apparent. Audience reactions poured in through social media, blogs, letters to editors, and reviews—none of which were lukewarm. Some viewers lauded the performance as genuine, heartfelt, and moving, while others condemned it as grotesque, horrifying, and ableist.
This division is not a novel phenomenon in the Autistic community and was not instigated solely by this play. All in a Row acted as a catalyst, offering a clear focal point for the existing tensions between opposing factions.
The discourse surrounding All in a Row highlights a significant contention regarding representation within the Autistic community: who gets to represent Autistic individuals, and how should autism and Autistic experiences be conveyed to the wider public? My research investigates whether the play and the ensuing controversy reflect fundamentally incompatible views on what it means to be Autistic and how autism should be understood and depicted.
The first video, titled Autism Culture Wars Presentation, offers a comprehensive overview of these conflicts and the philosophical underpinnings that inform them.
Chapter 3: Bridging the Divide
In the first of a three-part article series, I examine the weaknesses in the arguments presented by both sides of the autism debate. I propose alternative approaches, aiming to identify common ground.
Section 3.1: Anti-Oppression Philosophies
In the second part of this series, I discuss how anti-oppression philosophies can provide valuable insights for reconciling differing views in the autism culture wars. While the Neurodiversity paradigm has made significant strides since its inception in the late 1990s, it also has its shortcomings.
Section 3.2: Insights from Philosophers
In the final segment of the series, I seek guidance from philosophers and critical thinkers. I explore what lessons we can draw from their work to foster unity among the various factions in the Autistic community.
The second video, Problem with Everything: My Journey Through the… by Meghan Daum, serves as an audiobook preview that reflects on similar themes of understanding and representation.
Conclusion: Advocacy and Resources
I have compiled this series of articles into an eBook available for purchase in my online store and on Amazon for Kindle. Additionally, I offer a wide range of over 265 resources related to neurodiversity, particularly focusing on Autism and ADHD advocacy.
If you found value in these articles, I encourage you to share them with others who might appreciate the insights. Thank you for your ongoing support!