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In reply to the discussion: Could Autism Be an Evolutionary Step Forward? [View all]meadowlander
(5,206 posts)40. Civilization is where it is now because of people who "cover their ears and stim".
You can manage sensory issues by just working in a space that is quiet or appropriately lit or away from offensive odours or whatever the problem is. We've had those kinds of places forever.
And stimming helps to focus attention. The purpose is to help ground people when they are feeling overwhelmed by other things.
Put the autistic person in a place that doesn't cause sensory overload or otherwise overwhelm them and they can function at their best.
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Yes, he came to mind. It may not always be positive but there are plenty of traditionally thinking people who are
Quixote1818
Oct 2025
#3
I believe it's probably a genetic mutation (in the scientifically neutral sense) that exhibits naturally
AZJonnie
Oct 2025
#4
You're right, classical evolutionary theory does focus on traits that improve individual reproductive success. However
Quixote1818
Oct 2025
#10
Civilization is where it is now because of people who "cover their ears and stim".
meadowlander
Oct 2025
#40
Autism is within the range of normal human variation and has always been with us.
meadowlander
Oct 2025
#39
Discussion is missing the obvious. For it to be evolutionary, there have to be children
Bernardo de La Paz
Oct 2025
#52