Nick Walker's essay 'What Is Autism?' offers a concise, evidence-based definition that aligns with the neurodiversity paradigm. He describes autism as a genetically based neurological variant characterised by heightened synaptic connectivity and responsiveness, leading to intense sensory and cognitive experiences. Walker challenges the traditional view of autism as a disorder, suggesting instead that it represents a natural variation in human neurology, akin to differences in ethnicity or sexual orientation (which were pathologised in the past).
Nick Walker's essay 'What Is Autism?' offers a concise, evidence-based definition that aligns with the neurodiversity paradigm. He describes autism as a genetically based neurological variant characterised by heightened synaptic connectivity and responsiveness, leading to intense sensory and cognitive experiences. Walker challenges the traditional view of autism as a disorder, suggesting instead that it represents a natural variation in human neurology, akin to differences in ethnicity or sexual orientation (which were pathologised in the past).
