Description

For decades, autism was viewed by the medical establishment as a rare, tragic modern disorder caused by cold parenting or environmental toxins. In Neurotribes: The Legacy of Autism and How to Think Smarter About People Who Think Differently, acclaimed journalist Steve Silberman dismantles these harmful misconceptions to reveal a secret, fascinating history stretching back centuries.

Silberman tracks the pioneering, empathetic research of Hans Asperger, uncovers the bureaucratic maneuvers that buried his findings, and exposes the clinical missteps that led to decades of isolation for autistic individuals. Moving from historical archives to the modern tech hubs of Silicon Valley, the text introduces readers to the vibrant, growing neurodiversity movement. Written with immense clarity, unvarnished candor, and deep respect, Neurotribes argues that autism is not a disease to be cured, but a natural, valuable variation of human cognition that has consistently driven human innovation.

Why this groundbreaking book is an absolute essential:

• Bestselling Historical Narrative: Winner of the prestigious Samuel Johnson Prize, celebrated globally for its gripping, highly accurate investigative storytelling.

• Empathic Neurodiversity Advocacy: Reframes cognitive differences as natural human variations, providing immense comfort and validation to families worldwide.

• Comprehensive Medical History: Delivers a thoroughly documented account of the evolution of psychiatric diagnostics and clinical research.