Autism Spectrum Disorder or ASD was first officially recognised in the 1940s, while people slowly became acquainted with the condition in the following few decades. Today, it’s widely diagnosed and no longer perceived as a weakness— as several genius minds in history, including scientists, had been diagnosed or shown signs of neurodivergence traits.
Over the years, scientists have altered the course of human history introducing gadgets, efficient services, and formulated theories. Historical accounts suggest that some scientists displayed autism characteristics, which might have shaped their creativity, ideas, and execution. These famous autistic scientists— from Nikola Tesla and Barbara McClintock to Issac Newton — left a perennial legacy through their work and studies.
1) Nikola Tesla
Nikola Tesla was one of the brightest minds of the 20th century, who was known for his contributions in the electrical advancement and radio technologies. The Serbian-American scientist died at 86 in 1943— a time when autism was an alien idea. However, based on the historical accounts of Tesla, he might have been neurodivergent for his sensory overload and laser focus on his work.
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Additionally, he displayed other autistic behaviors that led to the speculation. He had a strict nine-hour work schedule, which he adhered to, ending it at 6 PM. Following his work, Tesla would eat at the same restaurant at the same time, and he always loved being served by his favorite waiter. Every night—particularly before going to sleep— he would curl his toes 100 times as a mandatory routine. Tesla had a razor-sharp memory, helping in scientific research and learning 8 different languages. He was fixated on electricity from childhood. In conclusion, his repetitive behavior, remarkable memory, and single-minded focus were indicators that he may have been autistic.
2) Barbara McClintock
Born in 1902, Barbara McClintock was a recognized female scientist of the last century. She completed her PhD and became a renowned cytogeneticist, winning the Nobel prize for her contributions to science in 1983. Even though autism was around during her lifetime, McClintock was never officially diagnosed. However, she exhibited some strong traits.
Despite her academic accomplishments and merits, she couldn’t reach full potential as a teacher because of her social awkwardness, possibly linked to neurodivergence. That’s why she worked as a solo researcher, and the role suited her perfectly. Her social aversion was so strong that she almost declined attending and receiving the Nobel Prize. With her hyper-focus ability, McClintock was fully dedicated to her work and research.
3) Charles Darwin
Professor Michael Fitzgerald, a renowned professor of Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland, once quoted about the distinguished biologist, Charles Darwin, in an interview with ‘The Daily Telegraph’
“Asperger’s syndrome gave Darwin the capacity to hyperfocus, the extra capacity for persistence, the enormous ability to see detail that other people missed”
He also added that Asperger’s syndrome, a type of autism, enhanced his ability for specific tasks and critical thinking for research.
Charles Darwin belonged to the 19th century— a time when autism was an undiscovered and unfamiliar concept, but based on the research on his personality and personal attributes, he was believed to be autistic. Besides his laser focus, he had social interaction challenges, struggling to communicate and hold a direct conversation, especially in his childhood.
4) Temple Grandin
Temple Grandin was one of the first adults to be officially diagnosed with autism when it was still an emerging concept. She brought a groundbreaking positive change in the neurodivergent community— thanks to her personal experience and challenges as an autistic person. Her initial diagnosis as a child was brushed off as a mental issue and brain damage, but her unique thinking and visual perception made a great impact in ASD research.
Drawing from her own perspective and experience, Temple Grandin authored two books on ASD— The Autistic Brain and Thinking in Pictures— which have played extensive roles in autism studies. While her impact on neurodivergence research has been unparalleled, she is primarily known as an animal scientist, redefining human handling of animal livestock. Today, handling of half of the United States’ cattle is followed by the center track restrainer system— a process efficiently designed by Temple Grandin.
5) Isaac Newton
Isaac Newton’s name is synonymous with every science student; be it in school and higher level education. He formulated the theories of gravity and laws of motion, transforming the course of science in the 17th century. His contribution paved the way for brilliant scientific advancement in the following centuries. In his era, autism did not have a name or diagnosis, but he showed neurodivergent behavior and traits— thanks to historical documentation about the renowned British scientist.
Newton not only displayed intense focus in his work and studies but also loved solitude. He came up with the idea of gravity—one of the greatest discoveries in science—in solitude when he was sitting under an apple tree, observing an apple fall from the tree. Beyond his scientific studies, he struggled with socializing and kept a limited number of friends, which was a notable sign of ASD. Moreover, Trinity College psychiatry professor Michael Fitzgerald claimed Newton had extreme fixation on certain topics. It was another strong hint of his autism.
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