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Autism Is Not A Disease: The Politics of Neurodiversity
Neurodiversity is one of the most urgent political issues of our time. As the number of diagnoses of autism, ADHD, and other types of neurodivergence rises, we are starting to understand that there is no such thing as a 'normal' brain. But society is still organised around neuronormativity, and autism is treated as a disease.
Jodie Hare, diagnosed with autism at twenty-three, argues it is time to redefine the politics of who we are. She calls for the recognition of diversity as part of natural variation, rather than a departure from sameness. This will have an impact on the places where we learn, work, and socialise - and Hare shows how these can be adapted to be more inclusive and accessible. She shows how we might commit to building a world where we can all thrive, one that works to combat discrimination based on race, class, gender, and disability.
Jodie Hare, diagnosed with autism at twenty-three, argues it is time to redefine the politics of who we are. She calls for the recognition of diversity as part of natural variation, rather than a departure from sameness. This will have an impact on the places where we learn, work, and socialise - and Hare shows how these can be adapted to be more inclusive and accessible. She shows how we might commit to building a world where we can all thrive, one that works to combat discrimination based on race, class, gender, and disability.
161 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 10, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
September 4, 2024
my sister wrote a motherf***in book
September 21, 2024
Pretty convincingly makes the activist's case that autism isn't to be cured, nor can there be a cure forthcoming, because it's just another way certain people synthesize information. Some of these folk might need a hand, as will we all.
Even more impressive to me, this book expounds on the grand unified theory of organizing across groups and subgroups in order to combat the "weaponized heterogeneity" that isolates individual movements in order to undermine their leverage. The term "neurodivergent" has grown into a term that includes not just autism, but ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dyspraxia, learning disabilities, Down syndrome, schizophrenia, dementia, Parkinson's disease, mental health conditions and acquired brain injuries. Rather than having been watered down as a signifier, "neurodivergent" has swelled in usefulness as an organizing banner.
The author gives undeniable examples of how caring for autistic (or any marginalized) folks helps everyone, e.g. disability activists have been agitating (years before COVID) for study/work-from-home models.
In a world with those systems of care, would pathologisation be necessary? Can we imagine a world without these labels?
Were we to disabuse people of their hyperindividualist delusions of capitalist luxury and set about implementing robust systems of care (in-home or otherwise) long before they're needed, it'd be irrelevant which flavor of neurodivergence, disability or need someone has; they'd be able to live their life.
Even more impressive to me, this book expounds on the grand unified theory of organizing across groups and subgroups in order to combat the "weaponized heterogeneity" that isolates individual movements in order to undermine their leverage. The term "neurodivergent" has grown into a term that includes not just autism, but ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dyspraxia, learning disabilities, Down syndrome, schizophrenia, dementia, Parkinson's disease, mental health conditions and acquired brain injuries. Rather than having been watered down as a signifier, "neurodivergent" has swelled in usefulness as an organizing banner.
The author gives undeniable examples of how caring for autistic (or any marginalized) folks helps everyone, e.g. disability activists have been agitating (years before COVID) for study/work-from-home models.
In a world with those systems of care, would pathologisation be necessary? Can we imagine a world without these labels?
Were we to disabuse people of their hyperindividualist delusions of capitalist luxury and set about implementing robust systems of care (in-home or otherwise) long before they're needed, it'd be irrelevant which flavor of neurodivergence, disability or need someone has; they'd be able to live their life.
May 25, 2024
An intersectional anti capitalist deep dive into neurodiversity, specifically autism. I loved this book! Jodie Hare does a wonderful job writing about the structures in our society that make things harder for neurodivergent folks. I learned a lot and was left feeling optimistic for a future that’s possible if all people work towards collective care and understanding. Honored to have read an advanced copy of this book and so excited for it to come out 9/10/24.
October 3, 2025
This was very insightful and relevant considering the recent spreading of misinformation
Read
November 26, 2025Like a journalistic summary of the discord about and around autism
January 11, 2025
I found this book really interesting and useful as a well articulated introduction to an important topic. Maybe wouldn’t be as relevant if I knew more about history of autism and the politics of neurodiversity but that’s why you read it lol. Good intro 👍
December 25, 2024
With more than a passing interest in the subject and having already read quite a bit about it, this book did not present much news or particularly insightful ideas. Still, I am glad that it was written and it is for sure more than necessary to engage with neurodiversity as an intersectional political movement, and this might be a good introduction to the matter.
March 30, 2025
Short, sweet, and very well-grounded in a material perspective. The references to Robert Chapman's "Empire of Normality" (on my list for a while now) really make me want to get my hands on that, as well.
May 15, 2025
it is so SO refreshing to read a book about autism and neurodiversity written by someone with first hand experience; particularly as a practitioner working with children with autism alongside other neurodivergencies, predominantly complex needs, that has consumed a reasonable amount of literature written by neurotypical practitioners. jodie hart is completely right that a lot of the literature around people with autism (or ‘autistic people’ as she prefers) focuses on childhood and often fails to provide adequate information on the adults these children turn into.
like fern brady’s book ‘strong female character’ (which i highly recommend) hart talks a bit about being a late diagnosed autistic woman and all the misunderstanding, false diagnoses, and autistic burnout that comes with that. this is an incredibly valuable perspective not just to potential undiagnosed autistics but also for all of the rest of us to aid us in building the kind of anti-ableist, supportive and inclusive society hart imagines.
something i also really appreciated with this was how aware hart is that our perspective, information and language we use is always changing and moving forward, she states in her intro that ‘it is highly possible — and indeed welcome — that much of what I write will become obsolete in both the immediate and more distant future’.
a note before i would recommend - this is written like a scholarly article, it’s language is very clear and academic which i personally loved and found very familiar, but if you don’t have much experience reading scholarly journals (or have and hated it) this may not be the most accessible option.
n/b: a really valuable note on the detriments of using labels like ‘high and low functioning’ from someone considered ‘high’:
‘As someone who is considered 'high-functioning', (…) I have often been told that my autism 'must be really mild'. I do not object to these assumptions; as a speaking autistic white woman who is able to work, it is undeniable that I hold a huge amount of privilege. It is often easy for my autism to go undetected, and I am therefore able to avoid some of the more potent forms of ableism. Beyond medical settings, any decision to disclose my diagnosis is a matter of choice on my part(…) I have not always been considered a 'productive' member of society. There were a few years when I rarely left my house or got out of bed, let alone held down a job. I have been in and out of therapy for a decade. And I have experienced episodes of autistic burnout from trying my hardest to hide my autistic traits and fit in among my neurotypical peers.
For these reasons, I can understand why those labelled 'high-functioning' might find the term suffocating, and feel ashamed when they go through periods when their support needs increase.’
like fern brady’s book ‘strong female character’ (which i highly recommend) hart talks a bit about being a late diagnosed autistic woman and all the misunderstanding, false diagnoses, and autistic burnout that comes with that. this is an incredibly valuable perspective not just to potential undiagnosed autistics but also for all of the rest of us to aid us in building the kind of anti-ableist, supportive and inclusive society hart imagines.
something i also really appreciated with this was how aware hart is that our perspective, information and language we use is always changing and moving forward, she states in her intro that ‘it is highly possible — and indeed welcome — that much of what I write will become obsolete in both the immediate and more distant future’.
a note before i would recommend - this is written like a scholarly article, it’s language is very clear and academic which i personally loved and found very familiar, but if you don’t have much experience reading scholarly journals (or have and hated it) this may not be the most accessible option.
n/b: a really valuable note on the detriments of using labels like ‘high and low functioning’ from someone considered ‘high’:
‘As someone who is considered 'high-functioning', (…) I have often been told that my autism 'must be really mild'. I do not object to these assumptions; as a speaking autistic white woman who is able to work, it is undeniable that I hold a huge amount of privilege. It is often easy for my autism to go undetected, and I am therefore able to avoid some of the more potent forms of ableism. Beyond medical settings, any decision to disclose my diagnosis is a matter of choice on my part(…) I have not always been considered a 'productive' member of society. There were a few years when I rarely left my house or got out of bed, let alone held down a job. I have been in and out of therapy for a decade. And I have experienced episodes of autistic burnout from trying my hardest to hide my autistic traits and fit in among my neurotypical peers.
For these reasons, I can understand why those labelled 'high-functioning' might find the term suffocating, and feel ashamed when they go through periods when their support needs increase.’
February 20, 2025
Growing up with a younger brother who has autism, I’ve always been deeply aware of the role that neuronormativity plays in our lives, stigmatizing people who think and act in ways that are considered “abnormal.” Autism is Not a Disease was a great reminder of how we need to embrace neurodiversity and validate different ways of thinking and experiencing the world.
I picked up this book on a whim and, after reading the first few pages, found myself engaged by how Hare talks about the neurodiversity movement. Her writing reminds me of Angela Davis’ work, providing well-researched examples of how neuroatypical individuals are mistreated while also zooming out to explore the broader political and social structures that shape these injustices. For example, in the first chapter, she challenges common labels of ‘high-functioning’ or ‘low-functioning’ autism, and discusses how these terms reinforce capitalist ideas that tie people to their productivity. Throughout the book, I think she does a great job explaining how social issues persist at the individual and global levels.
Before reading this book, I used to think about neurodiversity primarily as a term that pertained to people with disabilities, largely because many conversations about neurodiversity are centered around activism in the disabled community. But Hare encourages us to see neurodiversity as something that affects everyone—in our daily interactions, relationships, and societal structures. As is emphasized many times in the book, neurodiversity rejects the idea that there are ‘normal’ ways of perceiving and experiencing the world, and that’s a perspective I think anyone can learn from.
I picked up this book on a whim and, after reading the first few pages, found myself engaged by how Hare talks about the neurodiversity movement. Her writing reminds me of Angela Davis’ work, providing well-researched examples of how neuroatypical individuals are mistreated while also zooming out to explore the broader political and social structures that shape these injustices. For example, in the first chapter, she challenges common labels of ‘high-functioning’ or ‘low-functioning’ autism, and discusses how these terms reinforce capitalist ideas that tie people to their productivity. Throughout the book, I think she does a great job explaining how social issues persist at the individual and global levels.
Before reading this book, I used to think about neurodiversity primarily as a term that pertained to people with disabilities, largely because many conversations about neurodiversity are centered around activism in the disabled community. But Hare encourages us to see neurodiversity as something that affects everyone—in our daily interactions, relationships, and societal structures. As is emphasized many times in the book, neurodiversity rejects the idea that there are ‘normal’ ways of perceiving and experiencing the world, and that’s a perspective I think anyone can learn from.
February 9, 2025
Great quick read, really straight to the point, it talks about the ableism neurodivergent and other disabled people face on a daily to the extent it’s just normal, the book highlights how this needs to be changed, how parents of autistic children need so much more support. The book mentions crazy people on social media suggesting ‘treatments’ too, this is incredibly misleading and very uneducated. The book mentions how neurodivergent people can feel less important than neurotypical people, how disabled people can feel less important too, because of their non conformity to social standards. How disabled and neurodivergent require more support and how they seem to be a burden to the government, the book touches upon the history of ableism, how Asperger’s syndrome was treated during WWII, etc etc it’s a superb jam packed read. The book also speaks about how rather than talking ABOUT autistic people we need to talk WITH autistic people, it’s just really a great book and I’ll be reading it again in a-few months.
May 8, 2025
(3.25?) the purpose of this book seems to be to lay out the political imperatives of the neurodiversity movement + to highlight the importance of intersectional work. it didn’t offer much that was new to me b it did remind me of the tough material conditions autistic ppl face AND of why activists say forms of oppression are connected. the prose is earnest and, for the most part, clear, though it could benefit from some line editing. my main quibble is i’m not sure whether the neurodiversity movement sees itself as allied with OR as a subset of the disability justice movement, AND i feel uncomfortable w some of the conditions it lists as biological variations vs. diseases. (a lot of the political agenda i support tho! no way to test the social model wo social interventions…)
May 29, 2025
“Rejecting neuronormativity is a political act. There is room for us all.”
As a speech language pathologist who works with autistic students, I was eager to read this. It is refreshing to hear from an autistic adult instead of the usual so-called “experts” who have done the research but not lived the experience. Jodie does a beautiful job explaining various concepts within and related to the neurodiversity movement while including personal anecdotes from her life. I could not agree more that we need to stop trying to “cure” or “fix” neurodivergence, but instead consider how we can make our society more welcoming and accessible to all.
As a speech language pathologist who works with autistic students, I was eager to read this. It is refreshing to hear from an autistic adult instead of the usual so-called “experts” who have done the research but not lived the experience. Jodie does a beautiful job explaining various concepts within and related to the neurodiversity movement while including personal anecdotes from her life. I could not agree more that we need to stop trying to “cure” or “fix” neurodivergence, but instead consider how we can make our society more welcoming and accessible to all.
May 30, 2025
After reading fantasy novels, this was a little hard to begin but that is not Hare's fault! Once I understood the tone and writing style, this was a pretty accessible book. I enjoyed learning more about the origins of the Neurodiversity campaign and how its interdisciplinary politics.
January 18, 2025
More like a 4.5. this is a pretty good introduction and breakdown to the politics of experiences with disability and neurodiversity which was really well researched
August 14, 2025
A refreshing review of the autistic experience, which Hare reminds us is a political act of its own. An easy read, but packed with research that’s ACCURATE and not horribly ableist or cruel, yay!
August 31, 2025
This is a 120 page long political manifesto.
Books like this suffer somewhat from their own passion: while I agree with many of the statements, the constant regurgitating of same ideas, page after page, get in the way of actually explaining what is the main authors point. For example, there is a chapter where the author aims to explore the history of the concept of neurodiversity, but, apart from mentioning some key figures, I feel it derails into empassioned speech about the injustices of the world et large.
The book ends up feeling kinda shallow, too: it mentions many worthwhile authors and concepts, but never fully explores them, nor offers practucal solutions to proposed problems. There was a thought running through this book as I read - the changes required are so massive, and complex, and expensive...How does one begin? I believe that in order for the world to be accommodating for autistic/neurodivergent people, a lot of it must be built from the ground up - starting with neurodiversity needs. But the world - the services, employment, our culture - is already not built this way. What do?
But maybe I am expecting too much, hence why I call this book a political manifesto. Since I have read books on this topic already, many of the things here are not new to me. For others this book might serve as a good introduction to the topic!
Books like this suffer somewhat from their own passion: while I agree with many of the statements, the constant regurgitating of same ideas, page after page, get in the way of actually explaining what is the main authors point. For example, there is a chapter where the author aims to explore the history of the concept of neurodiversity, but, apart from mentioning some key figures, I feel it derails into empassioned speech about the injustices of the world et large.
The book ends up feeling kinda shallow, too: it mentions many worthwhile authors and concepts, but never fully explores them, nor offers practucal solutions to proposed problems. There was a thought running through this book as I read - the changes required are so massive, and complex, and expensive...How does one begin? I believe that in order for the world to be accommodating for autistic/neurodivergent people, a lot of it must be built from the ground up - starting with neurodiversity needs. But the world - the services, employment, our culture - is already not built this way. What do?
But maybe I am expecting too much, hence why I call this book a political manifesto. Since I have read books on this topic already, many of the things here are not new to me. For others this book might serve as a good introduction to the topic!
February 21, 2025
This felt like a summary of the neurodiversity movement and I would recommend it for people who are new to the topic. However, if you’ve read Unmasking Autism by Devon Price I don’t know how much you will get out of this. I got a few more books to add to my tbr from the references, but that was all really. Maybe because I already agree with the author’s arguments? So it just felt like things I already knew? I’m not sure really, it just didn’t leave much of an impression. I appreciated that it was concise, though.
January 11, 2025
Jodie Hare’s "Autism Is Not a Disease" is a thought-provoking exploration of neurodiversity and its broader political and social implications. Hare, diagnosed as autistic at 23, brings a wealth of personal insight and academic rigor to her work. With a Master’s degree in Modern Languages, Literature, and Culture from King’s College London, Hare is both a skilled copywriter and a passionate advocate, active on social media as @jodslouise.
The book’s title, "Autism Is Not a Disease", serves as a manifesto for Hare’s core belief: autism is not an illness to be cured but a neurological variation to be understood and valued as part of human diversity. This principle underpins the entire book and aligns with the ideals of the neurodiversity movement, which Hare positions within the broader context of disability justice.
Hare critiques the biomedical model of autism, which views it as an individual condition requiring treatment or mitigation. Instead, she advocates a societal model, emphasizing how inaccessible and discriminatory structures create barriers for neurodivergent individuals. This shift in perspective is central to her argument: the problem is not the individual but the environment.
One of the book’s strongest elements is Hare’s candid sharing of her own experiences as an autistic woman. She recounts her journey from misdiagnosis to self-discovery, demonstrating how embracing her neurodivergence led to self-acceptance and a sense of belonging within the neurodiverse community. Her narrative is both vulnerable and empowering, offering hope and affirmation to others navigating similar paths. By openly discussing the challenges and triumphs of her late diagnosis, she bridges the gap between personal struggles and broader societal implications, making her story relatable to a wide audience.
Hare’s exploration of the neurodiversity movement as a political project is another highlight. She articulates its foundational goals with clarity, distinguishing between intrinsic limitations and those imposed by society. Her critique of systemic ableism is incisive, prompting readers to reconsider how societal structures shape the experiences of neurodivergent individuals. While occasionally polarizing, her arguments are generally presented in a way that invites critical thought rather than divisive rhetoric. Additionally, her discussion extends beyond neurodiversity, recognizing the importance of building coalitions across marginalized groups. Her intersectional analysis—acknowledging the interconnectedness of ableism, sexism, and racism—adds depth and relevance, situating the neurodiversity movement within the broader landscape of social justice. By doing so, Hare not only champions the cause of neurodivergent individuals but also advocates for a more inclusive and equitable society as a whole.
Despite its merits, "Autism Is Not a Disease" is not without its shortcomings. The book’s narrow focus may alienate some readers, particularly those seeking more practical guidance or representation of diverse autistic experiences. Hare writes primarily from her perspective as a highly educated, verbal, and seemingly low-support-needs individual. This leaves little room for the voices of those with greater daily challenges or nonverbal autistic individuals, resulting in a somewhat limited portrayal of the autistic community.
Additionally, while Hare’s critique of the commodification of autism in corporate settings is valid, it feels superficial. She points out the risk of neurodivergent individuals being reduced to productivity tools or marketing assets but fails to delve deeply into the ethical complexities of workplace inclusion. Her analysis would have benefited from a stronger emphasis on corporate accountability and tangible strategies for ethical employment practices.
The book’s heavy focus on political theory comes at the expense of addressing everyday realities faced by autistic individuals. Issues such as sensory sensitivities, communication challenges, and burnout from constant adaptation are notably absent. Hare’s theoretical approach may resonate with academics and activists, but it risks overlooking the practical needs of autistic people and their families, employers, and policymakers.
"Autism Is Not a Disease" offers a valuable examination of the neurodiversity movement and its sociopolitical dimensions. Hare’s personal anecdotes and initial insights are compelling, and her emphasis on reframing autism as a variation rather than a deficit is both refreshing and necessary. However, the book’s narrow lens and lack of practical solutions limit its impact.
For readers interested in the theoretical and political aspects of neurodiversity, Hare’s work lays a strong foundation. Yet, for those seeking a more inclusive and actionable exploration of autism, this book may fall short. As an autistic reader with significant support needs, I found myself wishing for a broader, more tangible vision—one that not only imagines societal change but also addresses the immediate, lived realities of autistic individuals across the spectrum.
In conclusion, "Autism Is Not a Disease" is an important contribution to the conversation about neurodiversity, but future discussions must strive for greater inclusivity and a balance between political ideals and practical action.
This review has been published before on the Belgian autismblog www.tistje.com in Dutch
The book’s title, "Autism Is Not a Disease", serves as a manifesto for Hare’s core belief: autism is not an illness to be cured but a neurological variation to be understood and valued as part of human diversity. This principle underpins the entire book and aligns with the ideals of the neurodiversity movement, which Hare positions within the broader context of disability justice.
Hare critiques the biomedical model of autism, which views it as an individual condition requiring treatment or mitigation. Instead, she advocates a societal model, emphasizing how inaccessible and discriminatory structures create barriers for neurodivergent individuals. This shift in perspective is central to her argument: the problem is not the individual but the environment.
One of the book’s strongest elements is Hare’s candid sharing of her own experiences as an autistic woman. She recounts her journey from misdiagnosis to self-discovery, demonstrating how embracing her neurodivergence led to self-acceptance and a sense of belonging within the neurodiverse community. Her narrative is both vulnerable and empowering, offering hope and affirmation to others navigating similar paths. By openly discussing the challenges and triumphs of her late diagnosis, she bridges the gap between personal struggles and broader societal implications, making her story relatable to a wide audience.
Hare’s exploration of the neurodiversity movement as a political project is another highlight. She articulates its foundational goals with clarity, distinguishing between intrinsic limitations and those imposed by society. Her critique of systemic ableism is incisive, prompting readers to reconsider how societal structures shape the experiences of neurodivergent individuals. While occasionally polarizing, her arguments are generally presented in a way that invites critical thought rather than divisive rhetoric. Additionally, her discussion extends beyond neurodiversity, recognizing the importance of building coalitions across marginalized groups. Her intersectional analysis—acknowledging the interconnectedness of ableism, sexism, and racism—adds depth and relevance, situating the neurodiversity movement within the broader landscape of social justice. By doing so, Hare not only champions the cause of neurodivergent individuals but also advocates for a more inclusive and equitable society as a whole.
Despite its merits, "Autism Is Not a Disease" is not without its shortcomings. The book’s narrow focus may alienate some readers, particularly those seeking more practical guidance or representation of diverse autistic experiences. Hare writes primarily from her perspective as a highly educated, verbal, and seemingly low-support-needs individual. This leaves little room for the voices of those with greater daily challenges or nonverbal autistic individuals, resulting in a somewhat limited portrayal of the autistic community.
Additionally, while Hare’s critique of the commodification of autism in corporate settings is valid, it feels superficial. She points out the risk of neurodivergent individuals being reduced to productivity tools or marketing assets but fails to delve deeply into the ethical complexities of workplace inclusion. Her analysis would have benefited from a stronger emphasis on corporate accountability and tangible strategies for ethical employment practices.
The book’s heavy focus on political theory comes at the expense of addressing everyday realities faced by autistic individuals. Issues such as sensory sensitivities, communication challenges, and burnout from constant adaptation are notably absent. Hare’s theoretical approach may resonate with academics and activists, but it risks overlooking the practical needs of autistic people and their families, employers, and policymakers.
"Autism Is Not a Disease" offers a valuable examination of the neurodiversity movement and its sociopolitical dimensions. Hare’s personal anecdotes and initial insights are compelling, and her emphasis on reframing autism as a variation rather than a deficit is both refreshing and necessary. However, the book’s narrow lens and lack of practical solutions limit its impact.
For readers interested in the theoretical and political aspects of neurodiversity, Hare’s work lays a strong foundation. Yet, for those seeking a more inclusive and actionable exploration of autism, this book may fall short. As an autistic reader with significant support needs, I found myself wishing for a broader, more tangible vision—one that not only imagines societal change but also addresses the immediate, lived realities of autistic individuals across the spectrum.
In conclusion, "Autism Is Not a Disease" is an important contribution to the conversation about neurodiversity, but future discussions must strive for greater inclusivity and a balance between political ideals and practical action.
This review has been published before on the Belgian autismblog www.tistje.com in Dutch
April 16, 2025
Unfortunately, this introduction to the politics of neurodiversity just wasn't for me. I found a lot of the text difficult to understand and found the repetitive disclaimers disrupted the chapters.
As an autistic girly this was an extremely bleak read and I struggled with the impersonal tone throughout (ironic). Of course I expect any book on this topic to cover the difficult and uncomfortable subject areas such as discrimination, as well as dark statistics from research but I really struggled with this short book.
I learnt a few different things from this book which is always a positive but I think I'm just more inclined to neurodiversity non-fiction books which feature hopeful/advisory text along with the cold, hard facts. Is this a bad introduction into the politics of neurodiversity? No, but i do believe there are better and more accessible (even more enjoyable) publications out there.
"instead of pathologising those who exist outside these predetermined norms, we recognise their existence as part of natural biological variation, as well as recognising our failure to support them, and begin to build a world in which they too can thrive."
(thank you Anjali at Verso books for the review copy of this book)
As an autistic girly this was an extremely bleak read and I struggled with the impersonal tone throughout (ironic). Of course I expect any book on this topic to cover the difficult and uncomfortable subject areas such as discrimination, as well as dark statistics from research but I really struggled with this short book.
I learnt a few different things from this book which is always a positive but I think I'm just more inclined to neurodiversity non-fiction books which feature hopeful/advisory text along with the cold, hard facts. Is this a bad introduction into the politics of neurodiversity? No, but i do believe there are better and more accessible (even more enjoyable) publications out there.
"instead of pathologising those who exist outside these predetermined norms, we recognise their existence as part of natural biological variation, as well as recognising our failure to support them, and begin to build a world in which they too can thrive."
(thank you Anjali at Verso books for the review copy of this book)
January 26, 2025
a very slim introduction into the concept of neurodiversity not only as a descriptor but also as a socio-cultural and political movement. brief, but not any less insightful particularly for me as someone who wasn't especially attuned to this movement of political neurodiveristy.
sometimes the analysis felt like it was pulling away slightly, and i would have liked to see a deeper analysis of certain literature or sources that were used. not quite surface level, but sometimes it felt almost juvenile in it's analytical approach. however, i do appreciate that this was a very short introduction and provides a great jumping-off point to do some more reading. jodie hare did a great job of introducing me to this subject and challenging some of my own conceptions of neurodiversity and disability in a very accessible and readable way.
the introduction historicising neurodivergence was so interesting to me! will admit, i am much more attuned to contemporary discourses and have little to no knowledge of the beginnings of neurodiversity as a term, and it was great to learn more about that.
sometimes the analysis felt like it was pulling away slightly, and i would have liked to see a deeper analysis of certain literature or sources that were used. not quite surface level, but sometimes it felt almost juvenile in it's analytical approach. however, i do appreciate that this was a very short introduction and provides a great jumping-off point to do some more reading. jodie hare did a great job of introducing me to this subject and challenging some of my own conceptions of neurodiversity and disability in a very accessible and readable way.
the introduction historicising neurodivergence was so interesting to me! will admit, i am much more attuned to contemporary discourses and have little to no knowledge of the beginnings of neurodiversity as a term, and it was great to learn more about that.
January 25, 2025
This was a very thoughtful and eye opening book about the current state of the neurodiversity fight written by a woman diagnosed with autism at 23.
It’s 120 pages of the why, the numbers, and the way the fight for neurodiversity intersects with many other groups struggling for a way to change the system we live in.
I appreciated her perspective. As a parent, I still need to process some of it. A few things I’m not sure I see the way she does and that’s okay. It still gave me a lot of new information and I’m glad that she covered how these other fights, LGBTQ and others..) intersected with the one of neurodiversity.
An interesting and current book on what’s happening in the world of autism.
“Autistic people are thought to experience a substantially increased risk of self-harm in comparison to non autistic people, studies suggesting their likelihood of self-harming is three times higher.”
“In medical settings, neurodivergent individuals are often denied access to life-saving transplants on the basis of their disability…The extent of this discrimination became so widespread that, in 2021, laws were passed in multiple US states to ensure that disabled people were eligible for organ transplants…”
“Recent studies suggest that transgender and gender-diverse people are between three and six times more likely as cisgender adults to be diagnosed as autistic.”
It’s 120 pages of the why, the numbers, and the way the fight for neurodiversity intersects with many other groups struggling for a way to change the system we live in.
I appreciated her perspective. As a parent, I still need to process some of it. A few things I’m not sure I see the way she does and that’s okay. It still gave me a lot of new information and I’m glad that she covered how these other fights, LGBTQ and others..) intersected with the one of neurodiversity.
An interesting and current book on what’s happening in the world of autism.
“Autistic people are thought to experience a substantially increased risk of self-harm in comparison to non autistic people, studies suggesting their likelihood of self-harming is three times higher.”
“In medical settings, neurodivergent individuals are often denied access to life-saving transplants on the basis of their disability…The extent of this discrimination became so widespread that, in 2021, laws were passed in multiple US states to ensure that disabled people were eligible for organ transplants…”
“Recent studies suggest that transgender and gender-diverse people are between three and six times more likely as cisgender adults to be diagnosed as autistic.”
August 7, 2025
As a neurodivergent person myself I am pleased to say that the author broke new ground within my own understanding of my uniqueness, and not just a little. She shows me that my diagnosis is one that pathologizes and has done the same for countless others for generations. My neurology is not diseased and in a better world would be welcomed as part of the amazing panoply of human characteristics. I love how Hare pushes back again and time again against the biggest of enemies - capitalism included - that stand in the way of our becoming equal partners in this world with the neurotypical. Thank you Jodie Hare. Your book is magnificent.
January 15, 2025
A thought provoking interesting read, that made me consider my own neurodiversity (not autism) and the attitudes I have held on it in more depth. I found reading of her experience interesting and has allowed me to gain greater understanding of the experience of my friends. I can see the limitations of the book as per other reviews. However for me it was a good introduction to the background and gaining insight. Next will be to read a book that presents a more inclusive breadth of ifferent autistic people's view points.
February 13, 2025
Summary of neurodiversity as a movement, the state of ableism and disability justice. Feels fairly introductory but this may just be because I've read a few books on the topic already? It's recent (published 2024) which is nice as I really enjoyed Neurotribes (Steve Silberman) but that was published in 2015 and I had wished upon completing it that there'd be a version that brought things up to date.
The message boils down to, to eradicate ableism and truly fulfill the concept of neurodiversity, we just have to ... destroy capitalism. Which is just easier said than done I suppose.
The message boils down to, to eradicate ableism and truly fulfill the concept of neurodiversity, we just have to ... destroy capitalism. Which is just easier said than done I suppose.
March 7, 2025
Hare’s book provides a concise state of affairs of the current political discourse around neurodiversity, with the right amount of nuance required too when critically engaging with this subject. Not an easy thing to achieve when writing but Hare did just that!
I found this book accessible as a neurodivergent reader, which is something I have struggled with other books about autism that were either academic or providing critical analysis. I’d highly recommend this book for those seeking to understand the politics that impact autistic and other neurodivergent people’s lives.
I found this book accessible as a neurodivergent reader, which is something I have struggled with other books about autism that were either academic or providing critical analysis. I’d highly recommend this book for those seeking to understand the politics that impact autistic and other neurodivergent people’s lives.
July 15, 2024
Such such such such such a good overview of the inherent politicism and hopeful opportunities of the neurodiversity movement; half the cited sources already being in my care performance shelf have definitely lit a tiny pride-fire in my heart! Recommending to everyone. Get it when it's released.
(P.S. Big love to Faber for getting this one out on a timeline that allows neurodivergent individuals ample space to read & review!)
(P.S. Big love to Faber for getting this one out on a timeline that allows neurodivergent individuals ample space to read & review!)
November 19, 2024
Jodie Hare has done a great service for society with this book. Autism is not a disease gives agency to citizens, professionals, caregivers and policy makers to imagine and act towards a just society no longer defined by the haves and the have nots. Short, concise, personal, professional, give the challenges posed in this book consideration and respect, hope is indeed a discipline.
March 19, 2025
“Rejecting neuronormativity is a political act. There is room for us all.”
This is a very quick read; it presents a concise summary and introduction of the current political discourse around neurodiversity and disability. This book would be great for those seeking to understand the politics that impact neurodivergent people's lives (more specific to the autistic community).
This is a very quick read; it presents a concise summary and introduction of the current political discourse around neurodiversity and disability. This book would be great for those seeking to understand the politics that impact neurodivergent people's lives (more specific to the autistic community).
April 22, 2025
It is strongly written and takes a while to absorb the side of the spectrum of the writer. I am a conservative autistic and I was curious to learn about the way Jodie Hare writes about her views on autism in politics. It does take you into the autism topics with a lot of thought for the subjects of the autism movement. I don't agree with the content that much but it is a powerful book.
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