There is some talk in the Aspergers community that Aspergers syndrome could be an indication of a next stage of evolution leading to a more advanced human. I disagree. I I think there are a number of features of autism which point to earlier forms of the human brain rather than future ones.
Temperature control problems – possibly related to the adaptations that took place during evolution from cold blooded to warm blooded. I am writing this with one painfully cold hand and one hot hand!
Identifying food by simple known flavours – possibly related to having to identify safe foods.
“Self obsession” – Its not selfishness but linked to survival, putting personal needs first.
Difficulties with tight or itchy clothing
Sensitivity to being touched – detection of close threat through hairs.
Sensitivity to sharp sounds – ditto.
This list could be expanded.
In fact I see a lot of similarity between my autistic traits and those of some animals. Its as if my brain is slightly wired up like those of my distant ancestors.
However, I can see some of these traits having an evolutionary advantage. For example, in a world where people are becoming more individualised and friendship is being redefined around social media and people don't interacting socially with each other as much as they used to, an autistic person is likely to be able to survive better as they do not miss that social interaction. Also, dating is easier for autistic people nowadays because of online dating. There is therefore a greater chance of us marrying, having children and passing on our genes.
What do you think?
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